The Drum
Welcome to Term 3
Welcome to Term 3
Our first week of Term 3 may have only been three days in length, yet it was filled with extraordinary moments. High School students returned to discover a revitalised Senior Library - a beautifully redesigned space featuring new carpets, contemporary furniture for both independent and collaborative learning, and welcoming areas for reading and relaxation. This transformation is part of an exciting upgrade to Glenaeon’s library spaces, made possible through the generous support of our parent community and the GPA. We look forward to welcoming parents to visit both the Junior and Senior Libraries later this term. Please see some photos below.
And speaking of extraordinary, students from Classes 3 to 12 enjoyed inspiring workshops on Wednesday with the internationally acclaimed Waldorf Wayfarers choir, learning to sing and play beautiful, complex music in just a short time. Our thanks to Kamaroi for collaborating with us to make this possible, and to Raphaela Mazzone for her expert coordination of the event. Read more about the Wayfarers’ visit here.
And finally, our Year 12 Visual Arts and DT students demonstrated their exceptional creativity and capabilities in the first of our HSC Showcaseslast night. A large crowd of peers, family, friends and staff were on hand to marvel at each project and ask questions of the artists and designers, providing invaluable last minute feedback for consideration of final touches and additions prior to submission. Always a special time of year, our HSC Showcases provide an exceptional chance for the community to celebrate the accomplishments of our students in their final major projects. Upcoming Showcase dates: HSC Drama 21 August; HSC Music and Humanities, 28 August. All are welcome to attend.
Supporting the Valles-Garcia Family
We extend our deepest sympathies to the Valles-Garcia family following the tragic loss of their beloved daughter Lua, a radiant four year old and former Glenaeon Preschool student. Lua was the cherished daughter of Soraya, our former Preschool Assistant Director, and her passing has deeply touched our community.
A Go Fund Me campaign has been set up to support Soraya, Borja, and Rio during this unimaginable time. Donations will assist with funeral arrangements and help the family reunite with loved ones in Spain. We thank our community for the compassion and generosity already shown. In Soraya’s own words, ‘she is now the brightest of stars…’
Warmly,
Diana Drummond
Head of School
Upcoming Glenaeon Events
Primary School Open Day - 30 AUG
Primary School Open Day - 30 AUG
We invite current families to share event details with friends and family who are considering a Primary School education for their child.
Discover the difference a contemporary Steiner education can make for your child.
Join us at Glenaeon’s Primary School Open Day, where you will experience how our Kindergarten to Class 6 curriculum nurtures confident, capable learners who are free in spirit, grounded, curious, and well-prepared for High School and beyond.
When: Saturday 30 August 2025
Time: 10am – 12 noon
Where: Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School – Castlecrag Campus
121 Edinburgh Road, Castlecrag
To register: https://www.glenaeon.nsw.edu.au/openday
Glenaeon Family Fair - Save the Date - 15 NOV
Glenaeon Family Fair - Save the Date - 15 NOV
Save the Date in your calendars for the annual Glenaeon Family Fair at our Castlecrag campus!
We can't wait to welcome you for this joyful community event.
Saturday 15 November 10am - 4pm
School News
The Wayfarers Visit Glenaeon
The Wayfarers Visit Glenaeon
What a joy it was to welcome the Waldorf Wayfarers to Glenaeon on our first day back of term! Their presence brought a fresh energy, with new and beautiful music pouring out of both our music rooms all day.
It was particularly special to see the engagement and confidence of the students as they participated in the workshops, appreciating the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in rich musical experiences. From four part harmony accompanied by body percussion in Year 10, to a full ‘performance’ of Carl Jenkin’s Adiemus including voice, recorder, percussion and cello in Class 5 and 6, to the Glenaeon Touring Choir learning an immersive Australian choral work that gives the audience the feeling of being in a rainforest. The day was filled with music making, from the playful to the profound.
The Wayfarers themselves were blown away by the beauty of the Glenaeon campus and were impressed by the level of musicality and the engagement of our students.
It was wonderful to see so many of the Glenaeon community at their concert in the evening as well. All will agree that it was an evening to remember. A heartfelt thank you to the Wayfarers for bringing their unique spirit musical offerings to Glenaeon. We hope to cross paths again soon!
Glenaeon Welcomes Japanese Students - Would you like to Host?
Glenaeon Welcomes Japanese Students - Would you like to Host?
From the 9 -19 November 2025, Glenaeon will host students from Hamamatsu Nittai Junior High School in Shizuoka, Japan. The Japanese Students are here to experience Australian culture and our style of family life and to improve their spoken English. It is important they are supervised, treated as an extension of your family and participate in all family activities during their stay with you. It is also important that the student/s are not allowed to remain in their rooms for excessive periods and that the host family make a conscious effort to encourage the Japanese student in speaking English. If your family speaks a language other than English, please make a conscious effort to use English as much as possible whilst with the Japanese student.
You will receive $55 per student per night.
You are required to provide;
- Transport to and from school as required. Should any unexpected circumstance arise, and you are unable to provide the necessary transport, you will be responsible to make safe suitable alternate arrangements for your student. Students should never be asked to walk or travel by public transport alone
- If the school charted bus is used, the cost of the student’s bus fares for travel between home and school will be provided by VS Oceania.
- Instruct your student how to keep their money and valuables safe while in your home. You will explain your house rules and set down guidelines for Telephone and Internet usage.
- Provide them with a clean comfortable bed of their own. They may share a room but not a bed.
- Provide three meals and morning tea per day, including school lunches as required. Should no packed lunch be provided, you will provide money for your student to purchase lunch from the school cafe.
- Prior to embarking on any proposed Sightseeing Trip, costs involved will be discussed with your student and decisions made as to who is expected to pay. Students should not be expected to pay for petrol or any normal everyday household usage.
It’s important we have accurate information about your family on our records. If your family situation changes in any way, please give us a call so we can update our records. Pet information is also very important.
Please contact VS Oceania on admin@vsoceania.com or (02) 9889 4366 to enquire.
Glenaeon Year 11 Student Jasmine Shines in Young Archie 2025
Glenaeon Year 11 Student Jasmine Shines in Young Archie 2025
Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School is buzzing as Year 11 student Jasmine L.M. has been named a winner in the prestigious Young Archie 2025 competition. Her self-portrait, “My name is Jazz” oil on paper, captivated judges with its emotional depth and artistic finesse, earning her a spot among the top young artists in the nation.
The Young Archie competition, held annually by the Art Gallery of NSW, celebrates the talents of budding artists aged five to 18. This year, over 3,200 entries were submitted, with Jasmine's work standing out in the 16-18 age category. Jasmine’s piece is currently on display alongside the Archibald Prize 2025 exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW until August 17, 2025.
Diana Drummond, Head of School at Glenaeon, expressed her admiration:
“Jasmine’s achievement is a testament to her dedication to the arts, and the nurturing environment at Glenaeon. Her piece reveals a lot about her level of self-awareness, emotional depth, and creative confidence. Her ability to convey such profound emotion through her art is truly inspiring and the whole school community is very proud of her incredible efforts and talent.”
“Jasmine’s achievement is proof, not only of her incredible skill and sensitivity as an artist, but also to the environment that nurtures her, both at home and at school. At Glenaeon, we deeply value the development of the whole person and Jasmine’s work embodies that philosophy and our school’s values: integrity, wisdom, courage and heart. We are incredibly proud of Jazz and thrilled that her talent has been recognised on such a prestigious platform.”
Well done, Jazz!
Photos courtesy of © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Mim Stirling
Dr Stanley Tang Newest Steiner Voice on the Mic
Dr Stanley Tang Newest Steiner Voice on the Mic
Our very own Dr Stanley Tang, Director of Studies, Head of Science and Year 9 Guardian chats to host Andrew Hill on the latest episode of Steiner Voices XYZ.
Stanley discusses his unique upbringing in the Tibetan Plateau in Western China, how he discovered Steiner education and the origin story of his love of birds.
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts.
Exciting Expansion of Glenaeon’s Scholarship Program
Exciting Expansion of Glenaeon’s Scholarship Program
For many years, scholarships at Glenaeon have supported both new and continuing students entering Year 7 and Year 11. These opportunities not only transform the lives of recipients and their families but also enrich the life of the school as a whole.
With the full support of the Glenaeon Board of Directors, we are delighted to share that from 2026, the all-rounder, means-tested Sylvia Brose Scholarship, named after our School’s founder, will be extended to include students entering Kindergarten through to the end of Class 6. This development ensures that families who embrace the principles of Steiner education, and who may not otherwise have access to a Glenaeon education, can now apply for a scholarship for the earliest years.
This change affirms our strong desire to uphold the Steiner impulse within the Glenaeon context, and to build a diverse, values-aligned community for generations to come.
Information about applying for a 2026 Sylvia Brose Scholarship for students entering Years K-6 is available on our website here. Families are encouraged to spread the word and share this news widely.
Thank you Flock Care Families
Thank you Flock Care Families
Many Glenaeon families from all three of our campuses 'flocked' to Middle Cove over the winter holidays to care for our sweet flock of five chickens and one drake. A massive thank you to you all!
Please contact Sandra S.Frain@glenaeon.nsw.edu.au if you would like to join our weekend poultry care opportunity (CIP points available).
Chatswood Transport Interchange Glenaeon Shuttle Bus Service Feasibility Study
Chatswood Transport Interchange Glenaeon Shuttle Bus Service Feasibility Study
Glenaeon is currently assessing the feasibility of adding an additional route to our existing private charter bus services: a private Glenaeon shuttle service to run between Chatswood Transport Interchange and our Middle Cove and Castlecrag campuses. The aim is to improve direct access to our campuses, reduce travel time, reduce transfers, improve student safety and transport affordability.
To assess the feasibility of such a service, we invite you to respond to a short survey.
Key details being considered:
- Route: Chatswood Transport Interchange → Middle Cove Campus → Castlecrag Campus (and return)
- Schedule: Timed to support student arrival and departure
- Eligibility: Students from all year levels who can travel independently, and staff members
- Cost: A term-based fee structure (to be confirmed based on interest and numbers)
At this stage, we are gathering interest only. No commitment is required.
Current families, 2026/2027 enrolled families and staff of Glenaeon, are encouraged to complete this short survey form by Friday 22 August:
Survey responses will help us assess demand and shape a potential trial service in the future.
Castlecrag News
Class 1 Dreamtime Main Lesson
Class 1 Dreamtime Main Lesson
Class 1 finished Term 2 with a Main Lesson centered on stories of the Dreamtime. Gleaned from various traditions across the country, the children enjoyed drawing pictures of our native animals and hearing our First Nation people’s creation stories. From the kookaburra’s task to wake the sky people each morning to the Frill Necked Lizard’s punishing floods that ended drought, these stories spoke deeply to the children’s imaginations and deepened their connection to Country. Each day began with a circle outside as we sang an Acknowledgement of Country along with songs in language. This Main Lesson marks the beginning of an indigenous knowledges and traditions curriculum that weaves through the class teacher period as we seek to balance and incorporate multiple perspectives of our shared history.
Winter Nature Tables
Winter Nature Tables
Our nature tables change with the seasons as we move through the patterns of changing light, weather, plants and flowers. Mother Earth is looking after her little gnomes making warm cosy places to sit around the fire. Icy crystals hang and the banksias make the most beautiful candle trees with their lanterns on fire. Class 1 made beautiful echidnas reflecting the current season from the D'harawal indigenous calendar, Tugarah tuli as part of their indigenous stories literacy Main Lesson with Class Teacher Katherine Arconati.
Term 2 Parent Craft Creations
Term 2 Parent Craft Creations
Our wonderful parents made the most exquisite craft in Term 2. With support from our coordinator Charlotte, they learned and applied so many skills. Wet felting embroidery, stitching and needle felting. No experience is necessary...from simple stitches to more complex creations, parents have created pencil cases, butterflies, native animals, whales, quolls, needle cases, bags, decorations, crowns, key rings, bean bags and many more beautiful things!
The focus is often seasonal and there is also a theme that follows the indigenous D'harawal seasons. We are in the time of Tugarah Tuli, the cold months, with the flowering of Burringoa, the echidnas gathering, whales passing Sydney and the gathering of nectar by the animals. These seasons are incorporated into the stories for the children, the nature tables, and the toys that they enjoy.
Middle Cove News
Class 4 Create Cross Stitched Colour
Class 4 Create Cross Stitched Colour
Class 4 are bringing their fountain pen cases to life with wonderful cross stitched colour. Made with great care and precision, each tiny ‘x’ contributes to the beauty of the overall design. Here is what some of the Class 4 children said about the inspiration behind their design:
- The thing that inspired me with the colours is the ocean and the feeling of the waves.
- The back is a secret code!
- It was a bit unexpected because in the middle it turned into a bear and then into a fish.
- Purples to blues, yellows to reds, these are the colours of our years to thread.
- I chose these colours because it is the rainbow. And I think it’s fun to do if you’re bored.
- It is fun and calming and I chose the colours because they look nice together.
- I’m doing dark blue to light. It is going to look very nice.
- I am enjoying making my fountain pen case. I am joining dark to light so the dark bit stands out. I can’t wait till I get my fountain pen.
Spanish Languages Excursions
Spanish Languages Excursions
On Friday 20 June, Year 7 and 8 Spanish students enjoyed a delicious Mexican lunch at Taqueria, Cammeray. They enjoyed corn ribs, guacamole, salsa, totopos, fajitas and churros, and all behaved beautifully and had a wonderful time!
On Tuesday 24 June, Year 9 and 10 Spanish students came together to enjoy a rich day of language and culture. In the morning, they created pre-Hispanic rattles in a wonderful ceramics workshop run at Glenaeon by Argentinian potter Vicki de Aboitiz of Community Clay. This lovely opportunity was followed by a trip to Cammeray to enjoy a Mexican lunch at Taqueria and a shopping challenge in Spanish at Harris Farm. Their growing communicative confidence and their interest in the countries, art and food of the Spanish speaking world were a joy to witness and made it a delightful day.
Creative Writing Club
Creative Writing Club
Glenaeon is more than a school. It's a community that creativity celebrates the natural world, fostering the potential of the individual amid a web of nurturing support. Channeling those unique elements, the Creative Writing Club (CWC) will be hosting their first Creative Writing Competition!
Submissions fall into three categories, so for all those budding writers among our parents, carers, and graduates, you too can be a part of this creative celebration.
To enter, simply submit a piece of flash fiction (not more than one page, or 300 words) on the theme: The Natural World by Monday, 11 August using the following entry form: https://forms.office.com/r/v5JgVWXuUy
The judging panel of CWC Seniors, lead by Zoë Roberts (Yr 12) will make their selections, and the winner of each category will be announced on the 5 September.
Winners will each receive a $40 Abbey Books gift voucher, and the student pieces will be published in the school's AEON magazine. So, celebrate the creative community you are a part of, and make that woodland walk transform in a narrative pathway to success!
Front Desks
Grassroots Eco Store - Reopens 29 July
Grassroots Eco Store - Reopens 29 July
Grassroots Eco Store is enjoying an extended Winter break.
The shop will re-open with our usual term-time hours this Tuesday 29 July.
Wishing you a creative and nourishing start to Term 3!
Thank you for supporting local and choosing products that nurture creativity, sustainability, and imagination. A portion of every sale goes to support Glenaeon.
Grassroots Eco Store is located on the Glenaeon Castlecrag Campus, next to the Marion Mahony Griffin Hall. 121 Edinburgh Road, Castlecrag.
Attention Glenaeon Community!
Attention Glenaeon Community!
Do you, or someone you know, specialise in high-quality, archival photographic printing?
Our School Archivist is currently seeking recommendations for a reliable photo printer to produce archival-quality prints of a series of Glenaeon’s historical photographs.
If you or someone in your network can help, please get in touch with our Archivist, Will Bryant, atarchives@glenaeon.nsw.edu.au
Term 3 Co-Curricular Activities Now Open
Term 3 Co-Curricular Activities Now Open
We are very pleased to announce that registrations for this term's Co-curricular activities are now open! A wide range of exciting options are available, offering students a great opportunity to discover new interests, build skills, and enjoy time outside the classroom.
Please note that activities will only run based on sufficient student registrations.
For more information and how to register, please visit GLO.
Alumni
Ian Holmes Exhibition at Rudolf Steiner House
Ian Holmes Exhibition at Rudolf Steiner House
Glenaeon Alumni, Ian Holmes is showcasing his latest work at an exhibition at Rudolf Steiner House. Congratulations Ian! We welcome our Glenaeon community to support Ian and his enduring creative work.
Parent Education
Term 3 Parent Education
School Calendar
Community Noticeboard
Wednesday Pottery Classes
Wednesday Pottery Classes
This class is an opportunity for you to make your own projects.
Topics include: hand building / throwing, decorating and glazing.
It is designed for beginners and more advanced students of ceramics. It is open to teachers and parents.
Location: Ceramics room, Middle Cove Campus
Dates: Wednesday 30th July - Wednesday 24th September (9 weeks)
Time: 5:15pm - 7:15pm
Cost: $25 per session (200$ for the term) (all materials included)
This class will be taught by Brendan, Art teacher and Year 8 Guardian who is also a ceramic artist. Please call Brendan on 0420 557 917
(Places are limited due to the number of wheels and space)