Languages came to life across the School, with both Primary and High School students taking part in joyful celebrations of culture, creativity and connection during their respective Assemblies. From the imaginative performances of our Year 3 students to the rich displays of multilingual drama and dance talent of our High School students, the events demonstrated intercultural learning and the many ways language helps shape identity and community. These moments form part of the exciting build-up to International Day, which will take place on Friday 1 August.
Primary School
The Year 3 Italian classes opened with Dove si trova l’acqua? – Where can water be found? – a lively performance exploring the many places water can be found in our world.
In Chinese, students sang two well-loved songs: The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round and Listen to Me Say Thank You, spreading smiles and gratitude across the audience.
The Year 3 French performance, led by Marilyne, took the audience on an imaginary journey with Faire le tour du monde en 80 jours – Around the World in 80 Days – delighting all with its global theme.
Japanese language students acted out a charming role-play titled 日本に行きましょう！ – Let’s go to Japan! – complete with cultural references and conversational exchanges.
Finally, the Year 3 German group shared Flieger by Lichterkinder, a cheerful and energetic song that had the crowd clapping along.
High School
Principal Shauna Colnan proudly presented the Semester 1 Principal’s Outstanding Effort Awards, recognising students from Years 11 and 12 for their consistent dedication, growth and commitment to learning.
Congratulations to the following students:
Year 11
Mirabel A, Matilda B, Gretel D, Oscar F, Jessica F, Phaedra H, Kai H, Hamish J, Gabriella K, Mia L, Tilly M, Isabella M, Anna M, Alice M R, Sophie O, Orla O, Maia V.
Year 12
Giorgio A, Ella C, Lucinda C, Greta G, Oliver G, Eva H, Maya I, Ava L, Mia L, Molly M, Jude M, Saul M, Billie M, Georgina M, Tomas M, Danilo M, Lexie P, Matilda R, Aroha R, Lilla S, Mia W.
A key highlight of the assembly was a look ahead to one of the most anticipated days in the IGS calendar – International Day. Year 10 student Billie spoke passionately about the significance of the event, which celebrates the School’s rich tapestry of cultures, languages and identities. Billie welcomed Regine Berghofer Director of Languages, who shared exciting updates.
Year 9 student Sam, who is learning Spanish, reflected on the energy and colour that International Day brings to campus and introduced the International Day Design Competition winners. This year’s entries were described as “incredible” with the winning design by Year 7 Sienna V, capturing the spirit of unity and diversity.
“We lift each other up. We grow stronger not despite our differences but because of them. Let us be a community where stories are not just told, but treasured. Where differences are not just accepted but embraced,” shares Sienna.
Second place went to Year 5 Gina, third to Year 5 Chester and fourth to Year 7 Wayneta.
Congratulations to all winners and participants!
The assembly also marked the launch of a new initiative – the International Day Essay Writing Competition, which invites students to explore themes of identity, language, culture and belonging through writing. Languages Leader Greta introduced the competition and encouraged students to take part.
A playful and multilingual drama titled Why You Should Come to IGS delighted the audience, showcasing students performing in Mandarin Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, French and Spanish. The scene followed a new student on a tour of the School, encountering a variety of persuasive and passionate language learners with each presenting their unique cultural perspective. Congratulations to Claudine, Genevieve, Alina, Artie, Kaden, Milena and Sam for their expressive and entertaining performance!
In another show-stopping moment, the IGS Dance Troupe took to the stage with a high-energy routine set to Jungle by Australian artist Emma Louise. The performance featured a special live vocal by Luella Prasad, who sang the song in French, adding a unique international twist.
Continuing the celebration of global perspectives, student Lucinda performed a witty monologue from Oscar Wilde, translated beautifully into Italian, offering the audience a cultural and linguistic reinterpretation of Wilde’s iconic humour.
Thank you to all the teachers who guided and encouraged students in preparing their performances and presentations. Your dedication made these celebrations of language and culture both meaningful and memorable, setting the stage beautifully for International Day.
