I want to take a moment to reflect on the vibrant energy that has defined our campus over the last few weeks. It has been a season of celebration, competition, and community, and I am incredibly proud of the way our students have engaged with every opportunity presented to them.

The end of the term has been marked by several standout moments:

• Harmony Day: Our Prefects did a fantastic job celebrating our diversity through their Harmony Day “Global Glam” event. The significance of this occasion allows us to continue fostering understanding, respect, and a deep appreciation for the richness of our diverse community.
• Languages Week: It has been wonderful to see such a wide range of initiatives sparking a love for global cultures and linguistics.
• Sporting Excellence: A huge congratulations to our IGSA Swimming and Diving Teams, which placed equal third for swimming and equal sixth for diving at the IGSA carnival, and our Tildesley Tennis Team for maintaining an incredible 17-year winning streak. Additionally, congratulations to Cumberland and York Houses, which placed equal first, followed closely by Lincoln in third.
• House Service: All Houses have officially launched their charity organisations for the year and have conducted their first student-led, service pastoral sessions. We congratulate the House Officers for their courage and leadership shown in strengthening community ties, compassion and a sense of belonging within our school.
• Amadeus Concerts: I am always in awe of the incredible talent showcased in our Amadeus concerts. This term, we enjoyed two spectacular nights that recognised the immense talent and commitment of our performing arts students and staff.

We wish our Cadets the very best for their Annual Field Exercise at Singleton in partnership with Trinity, which departs at the end of this week. Our student leaders have worked tirelessly on the program. We look forward to hearing about their leadership growth and hope all the Cadets have a rewarding experience.

Key Reminders for Term 2

To ensure a smooth transition back to school, please take note of the following important dates and requirements:

• New Parent App: From Term 2, the old Meriden Parent App will no longer be updated – switching now will ensure you won’t miss any vital information regarding your daughter. You can download the new app by clicking here. Alternatively, search for “Parent Orbit” in your App Store and enter the School Code “Meriden”. The new app has been created with parents in mind: one simple, central hub where you can manage absences, view your daughter’s schedule, register for cocurricular activities, approve excursions, and stay informed, quickly and easily.
• Return to School: Students return to school on Tuesday, 21 April (Week 1A).
• Winter Uniform: For Term 2, please ensure your daughter is ready with the correct winter uniform. We strongly recommend booking a winter uniform fitting appointment, as bookings now open. Please check the full uniform requirements and appointment bookings to secure your booking.
• The Uniform Shop – Holiday Trading Hours:
  • Wednesday 1 April: Last day of trading for Term 1
  • Monday 13 April: Shop reopens for regular trading (Monday to Friday, 7:45am – 5:15pm)
• Blazer Pocket Submission (Years 10 to 12):
  • Pockets will be announced on Monday 30 March. Before submitting your daughter’s blazer, please ensure:
    • The blazer is clean and freshly presented (orders cannot be processed otherwise)
    • The completed Pocket order form is placed inside the internal blazer pocket
    • All pockets are emptied of personal items
    • All badges have been removed
  • Submission dates: Monday 30 March and Tuesday 31 March, outside the Recital Room at recess and lunch, or at the Uniform Shop before 5:15pm.
  • Please note that families may choose to defer pocket embroidery and arrange for this to be completed at a later time.

May the spirit of this Easter season bring peace and reflection to your homes. As we celebrate the glorious resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the profound hope and new life that His sacrifice offers to us all.

I wish all our families a restful holiday break. We look forward to seeing the students return refreshed and ready for Term 2.