From a small town to global prominence, the trajectory of Katrina Schiller, a 1990 graduate of °Ä²Ê¿ª½±, in the realms of film music editing and composition is nothing short of extraordinary.

Katrina’s love for music began at home in Clothiers Creek, near Murwillumbah in NSW. The piano, a constant companion in her childhood, set the stage for a lifelong devotion to musical expression. At Stuartholme, under the guidance of music educator Carol Parker, Katrina’s passion for music found fertile ground.

Reflecting on her time at Stuartholme, Katrina fondly recalls Mrs Parker’s influence. “She had a way of supporting and guiding us to do our best creatively,� says Katrina. Mrs Parker’s composition assignments and captivating vocal choir selections fuelled Katrina’s musical curiosity and set her on a trajectory that continues to shape her career today.

After graduating from Stuartholme, Katrina pursued her studies at the Conservatorium of Music in Brisbane, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey. Her career took her from Sydney to London, and now she resides in the heart of the entertainment industry, Los Angeles.

As a Film Music Editor and Music Composer, Katrina has lent her talent to Academy, Golden-Globe, and BAFTA award-winning films. Collaborating with a diverse group of filmmakers, composers, and musicians, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the musical landscape of cinematic masterpieces.

Katrina’s current work in London, spanning five months this year, exemplifies the dynamic nature of her profession. Her days are far from typical, starting at 9 am and often concluding well after 10 pm. Whether collaborating with directors and editors to establish the musical tone of a scene, assisting composers in crafting film scores, or overseeing recording sessions with orchestras, Katrina’s role is multifaceted.

As a Music Editor, she navigates the intricate process of film production, representing composers during the final mix or dub. This high-pressure role requires her to be the intermediary between the creative composing team and filmmakers, all while managing the expectations of major studios. 

Despite the challenges, Katrina expresses a profound love for her work, acknowledging the tireless effort required to meet tight deadlines for a film’s highly-anticipated release.

Amidst the bustling world of film and music, Katrina holds dear the memories of her time at Stuartholme. Beyond the academic realm, her boarding school experience forged lasting friendships. “Some of my boarding school friends and I have traversed the world and lived together across the globe, and we are still in close contact,� she shares.

These friendships, born from a shared background of love and support, remain a constant in Katrina’s life. The commonality of coming from caring families, striving for excellence, and navigating the world with respect and humility is a bond that transcends time and distance.

As Katrina Schiller continues to make waves in the global music and film industry, including her recent role as Supervising Music Editor on the 2023 film 'Wonka,' her journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of a Stuartholme education and the enduring connections formed within its halls.

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Central to the educational philosophy at °Ä²Ê¿ª½± is the holistic development of each student, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals in all aspects of school life. In 2024, the school is breaking barriers in sport participation and achieving remarkable milestones.

Sporting engagement at Stuartholme has soared, with an impressive 80% of students actively involved in sports and physical activities throughout Term 1. This achievement represents a substantial increase from previous years, with nearly 600 students participating in various sporting activities, marking a growth of over 24%. Notable increases have been observed in sports such as Netball, Cricket, Water Polo, and Rugby 7s, further diversifying the sporting landscape.

Despite the demands of senior year, Stuartholme maintains an average of 72% participation among senior students in school sports. Through a diverse range of sporting offerings, including the S60 and Athlete Development Program, students are empowered to customise their co-curricular experiences, balancing academic pursuits with athletic endeavours.

The pursuit of excellence extends beyond the school grounds, as demonstrated by Year 12 student and Cross Country Captain Gretta Johnson, who represented Australia at the Under 20’s World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia. Her performance, finishing 53rd overall, 5^th among the Australian competitors and completing a 6 Km race in 22.44 minutes, exemplifies her dedication and hard work.

Stuartholme's sporting prowess extends nationally and internationally, with students representing Queensland at various national levels in sports such as Athletics, Equestrian, Canoe Polo, Tennis, Rowing and Softball, to check out the sporting achievements we invite you to read the latest edition of the Cor Unum. Internationally, the °Ä²Ê¿ª½± all-girls Rugby 7s team proudly represented Australia at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, showcasing their talent on the global stage.

Stuartholme students are inspired by empowering figures like Emma McCarthy, the Director of Sport and an accomplished Rower. Ms McCarthy's recent appointment as Coach for Rowing Queensland further underscores Stuartholme's commitment to fostering excellence in sports leadership.

Earlier this year, °Ä²Ê¿ª½± hosted the Ord Minnett Australian Stingers in a two-game match against Canada, showcasing Stuartholme’s world-class pool facilities and providing the community with an opportunity to witness Water Polo excellence firsthand.

Research conducted by the University of Sydney underscores the importance of a balanced approach to education. Involvement in sports has been linked to higher academic performance and increased attendance rates. Furthermore, participation in sports enhances students' literacy and numeracy skills, fosters goal-setting abilities, and promotes self-reliance, all of which contribute to improved academic outcomes.

Dr Katherine Owen, a researcher involved in the study, emphasises “the positive correlation between continued sports participation and academic success.â€� °Ä²Ê¿ª½± embodies this ethos by providing students with over 15 sporting opportunities, alongside a dynamic Arts and Social Justice Program, encouraging students to excel both inside and outside the classroom.

Through a balanced approach to education, Stuartholme is committed to providing an education that transcends traditional boundaries, nurturing students who are not only academically proficient but also physically active, socially conscious, and equipped with the skills to step up and thrive in all facets of life.

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°Ä²Ê¿ª½± invites you to watch our Principal’s story, delving into the rich history of our dynamic educational offering that encapsulates the vision of “A Sacred Heart education is not meant to turn the children out small and finished but seriously begun on a wide basis. They must leave us with self-knowledge, energy, and purpose.â€�

Mr Crump said that “with a commitment to the timeless vision of St Madeleine Sophie Barat, our central goal is to produce graduates who can leave the world that little bit better than how they found it through answering the call to step up to be agents of change in the world�.

Mr Crump continued that “in doing so, our young women are formed in the modern attributes required to see beyond themselves and the school to transform the world for the better, step up to futures not yet known, having their social consciousness nurtured in the spirit of our Sacred Heart calling�.

Step Up to °Ä²Ê¿ª½± at one of our School Tours or take your first step and come on the journey of a Sacred Heart education and enrol today.

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°Ä²Ê¿ª½± is excited to announce the new 2024 to 2027 Strategic Vision, which aims to set the foundation for our Years 5-12 Catholic Girls' School to “Shape the girls who will shape the worldâ€�, emphasising educational innovation and transforming the 'traditional' school day as foundational pillars.

Steeped in our rich history, Stuartholme is committed to the mission and vision of Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat and the Sacred Heart Sisters who founded °Ä²Ê¿ª½±. The Strategic Vision for 2024 – 2027 responds to Saint Madeleine Sophie’s call to challenge existing paradigms in education and not remain neutral in the world.

As leaders in girls’ education, the new strategic roadmap strives to provide a contemporary and transformative education with heart for young women, enabling them to challenge a modern world and exhibit courage, compassion, and confidence. This empowers them to be agents of transformation in their lives and the lives of others, fostering collaborative, critical, creative thinkers, and resilient leaders to make a global impact.

In the words of Mother Janet Erskine Stuart, “a Sacred Heart education is not meant to turn the children out small and finished but seriously begun on a wide basis.�

The strategic vision serves as a call to action and an invitation to innovate, collaborate, and sustain.

"We thank the community for their contributions to the development of our bold new strategic vision to ensure the sustainability of our founder’s vision in a modern context," Mr Crump added.

Together, as a Stuartholme community, we will shape a future where educational excellence, co-agency, dynamic culture, and sustainability converge to create an enduring legacy, empowering generations of young women to come.

To read more about the Strategic Vision 2024 - 2027, please click here. 

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At °Ä²Ê¿ª½±, music is an integral part of our students’ development, wellbeing, and success for Years 5 to 12. The Stuartholme music program, guided by dedicated instructors and supported by scientific research, has evolved into a symphony of growth and connection. 

Senior lecturer Dr Leah Coutts from the Queensland Conservatorium emphasises the importance of collective music-making in fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. Dr Leah explains that Music facilitates a sense of community and unity by triggering the release of oxytocin and dopamine, ultimately improving brain health, boosting self-esteem, or providing someone with a sense of purpose.

°Ä²Ê¿ª½± Principal Mr Crump, a dedicated musician, highlights “At Stuartholme, arts and music education are fundamental to who we are as a Sacred Heart school. As a core part of our curriculum, our students unlock their potential through arts experiences that allow them to have a deeper understanding of themselves and how they fit in an ever changing and dynamic world. The rich offerings of music and arts at Stuartholme provides a platform for our students to thrive well beyond the gates of the school.

As a passionate arts and music educator myself, the arts are crucial to our humanity and cultural literacy in contributing to future thinking societies that make an impact.�

Stuartholme’s music program, commencing in Year 5, takes students on a journey by exposing them to diverse instruments, progressing to a comprehensive understanding of being a practising musician by Year 12.

From Year 7 to Year 12, the program focuses on exploring and understanding the practical aspects of being a musician. It contributes to academic outcomes and personal growth, showcasing the universal appeal and benefits of music for all students.

Director of Music, Andrew Mear and a member of the Stuartholme community for 15 years shares “The program fosters a supportive community, encouraging our younger cohorts to connect with students up to Year 12 when involved in extra-curricular ensemble and choir opportunities�.

Students who would like a more tailored lesson for their specific music talent or prefer a one-on-one setting have the opportunity for private studio lessons providing an environment for each individual to practise their musical skills in a safe and nurturing space. Students have the opportunity to use these platforms as an outlet away from their academic studies or can advance further.

Stuartholme’s mission-driven music program integrates singing in masses, liturgies, the annual Choral Competition, and community events to engage all students and the broader community. This inclusive approach fosters participation, aligning with the program’s overarching goals.

In the words of Billy Joel, “I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.�

The journey of music at Stuartholme and beyond echoes this sentiment, creating a pathway to personal growth, self-esteem, and a strong sense of community for all our students.

Reference: Crossen, L. (2020, May 14). How music helps us cope during a crisis. Retrieved November 21, 2023, from https://news.griffith.edu.au/2020/05/14/how-music-helps-us-cope-during-a-crisis/

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Over the weekend, °Ä²Ê¿ª½± hosted the Ord Minnett Australian Stingers in an exhilarating two-game match against Canada. This exciting event showcased Stuartholme’s world-class pool facilities on the global stage, providing students and the community with a unique opportunity to witness world-class Water Polo excellence right on our own grounds.

The 2024 Water Polo season has officially commenced with the Junior and Senior Water Polo Camp setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead. Stuartholme's Water Polo program is poised for a bright future, highlighted by the addition of two distinguished figures in the sport: Jodie Stuhmcke and Hannah McWilliam. These appointments bring renewed spirit and valuable mentorship to the team, ensuring the continuation of Stuartholme's tradition of excellence.

As Alumna, Rachel Byron (Class of 1998), the school's Water Polo coordinator, steps back to embrace motherhood, she has played a pivotal role in orchestrating key appointments to maintain the high coaching standards for which Stuartholme Water Polo is renowned. Central to this transformation is the appointment of Jodie Stuhmcke, a 2004 Olympian and the current Queensland coach, who joins the team as the new player mentor and coach. Based at the Queensland Academy of Sport, Jodie brings a wealth of experience and expertise to elevate the Stuartholme Water Polo program.

Jodie shared her excitement, stating, "It's been really exciting to be on the pool deck with Stuartholme's Water Polo team. I am genuinely impressed by the talent and dedication of the girls and the coaching staff I've had the privilege to train with so far. The warm welcome I've received from the parents and the Stuartholme team has been fantastic. Thank you for making me feel at home here so quickly."

A testament to the school's dedication to nurturing its own talent, Stuartholme Alumna, Hannah McWilliam (Class of 2015), an international Water Polo athlete, co-chairs the Water Polo team this season alongside Rachel's continued support. Having made the journey from student-athlete to international athlete and now a coach at Stuartholme, Hannah perfectly embodies the school's ethos of developing and supporting their own.

°Ä²Ê¿ª½± also acknowledges the passion and talent of many of its students aspiring to excel in Water Polo. The newly established Parent Support Group has been working tirelessly to provide additional support. We extend our thanks for their continued dedication, not only for their daughters but also for the success of °Ä²Ê¿ª½± Water Polo.

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2024 has marked a significant moment for °Ä²Ê¿ª½±, as we proudly welcomed our inaugural Year 5 cohort to our community this week.

Principal of °Ä²Ê¿ª½±, Mr Daniel Crump said, “our Founding Fives have taken the first steps in their Sacred Heart journey, walking in the footsteps of our founder St Madeleine Sophie Barat, empowering them to be confident, courageous, and compassionate young women.â€�

The first day for our Year 5 students was met with great enthusiasm and success with students sharing their favourite moments from the day.

First day highlights included meeting new people, making new friends, and feeling proud at how brave they were in beginning their Stuartholme journey.

Set among the treetops, the Junior School provides our young learners with a secure and inspiring environment to cultivate knowledge and nurture curiosity.

With only 100 students in Years 5 and 6, Stuartholme offers a distinctive opportunity for these students to receive an education tailored to their individual needs.

A dynamic and impressive Junior School Team has been established, led by Mr Brendan Downes, Director of Junior School and Ms Megan Moffatt, Leader of Learning Junior School. They bring a wealth of experience in developing Junior School teaching and learning. Leanne Caines, with a background in school support, is the friendly and welcoming presence in our Junior School Reception.

The Junior School has two outstanding educators, Maggie Wright and Genevieve Easton, whose passion and expertise will contribute to a robust, supportive, and caring environment.

With the 2024 Focus Goal of "Building Community as a Christian Value," °Ä²Ê¿ª½± aims to uphold the legacy of our founder, Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat and step up to the challenge together of fostering an environment where every student can thrive.

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“Open Mind, Open Heart, Play Your Part� was Stuartholme’s mantra this year, and the Class of 2023 have embraced this through their academic achievement in a diverse range of areas.

Principal Danny Crump said “we are proud to announce some highlights from our 2023 graduates, and congratulate each and every one of these 119 confident, compassionate, and capable women,� said Mr Crump.

100% of our students received a Queensland Certificate of Education.

In addition, 92% of our ATAR eligible cohort achieved an ATAR or equivalent rank of 80+, opening up a wide variety of future opportunities.

Two of our students achieved straight A grades in all six of their General subjects. Ten students studied five General subjects and achieved As in all.

16 of our students achieved the result of 100% in at least one of their external exams.

Two of our students achieved a perfect final subject score of 100 out of 100 in the subject of Drama.

51 Diplomas were awarded, 16 Certificate IIIs were awarded, and 20 Certificate IIs were awarded.

“These achievements reflect the dedication and hard work of our staff and students, and the quality of the teaching and unique learning opportunities provided at our School,� said Mr Crump.

“Stuartholme supports all of our graduates to find the best pathway forward, so they have the platform to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, equipped to take on the world, just like our class of 2023.�

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In a world where traditional education models have been tested and stretched to their limits, innovative leaders like Ms Deborah Lonsdale-Walker are shining bright. As the Deputy Principal of °Ä²Ê¿ª½±, Deborah has been named on The Educator Hot List, a recognition of educational leaders making significant contributions to advancing innovation in the education industry. Her dedication to student wellbeing and her commitment to reshaping traditional school structures have earned her this well-deserved recognition.

The past few years have seen Deborah take the helm in reimagining Stuartholme's school day. In recognising the limitations of traditional schooling models, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, she initiated a transformative process that has paved the way for a more agile and responsive education system.

One of her initiatives, "The HIVE," engages Year 11 and 12 students for two days a week, providing them with mentoring and support from alumnae with diverse backgrounds. This program is flexible, learner-centred, and empowers students to take charge of their education. In recognition of its success, the program is set to expand in 2024.

Deborah collaborated with staff and Alumnae to introduce subject-specific study with experts in their fields, enabling students to opt-in to target study sessions for “Flexible Academic Support� during the school day, enabling students to make their own decisions in their learning journey. This approach, known as Specialist Learning Hubs, fosters greater student agency and encourages career-based learning exploration.

In addition to her role at Stuartholme, she serves as a Director on the Iona College Board and is the first female Chair. She is also a valuable member of educational committees and associations, and has co-authored publications, showcasing her expertise and commitment to education.

Deborah's leadership stands as a shining example to the young women at °Ä²Ê¿ª½±, driving educational transformation in alignment with the Graduate Vision.

“Stuartholme graduates exemplify courage, compassion, and confidence as they become agents of transformation in their lives and the lives of others. Rooted in the values imparted through a Sacred Heart education, our graduates emerge as collaborative, critical, and creative thinkers and leaders, equipped to face challenges with resilience and sustain their learning journey through a deep spiritual connection with the Sacred Heart charism.�

°Ä²Ê¿ª½± congratulates Ms Lonsdale-Walker on this significant recognition and thank her for her visionary approach to continued excellence at Stuartholme.

As seen on:

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