The Reflection Garden was born from the dedication of a small group of students that were aware that not only were Jesmond students busy with their academic studies, but also part-time work, leisure pursuits and domestic responsibilities. It was the sudden death of a student that initiated further growth of the Reflection Garden. Those who knew the student closely and to varying degrees, all the staff and students, were affected by this event. It served to remind us that there would always be people in our school community who were dealing with difficulties and stresses - even if it was only the pressure of doing well in the HSC.

Thus, with enthusiasm and perseverance, this student group actively researched and sought out advice from local nurseries and landscape architect, Don Barnett. Mr. Barnett volunteered his time to draw up a scaled plan of the Garden, which was based on the initial design by technical drawing student, Anthony Koch. With this foundation, the Student Representative Forum organised fundraisers in school, including the SRF Funday, which involved members of the Jesmond Lions and Leos who assisted by running a hot dog stand. Also, over 400 letters and e-mails were sent out to the Alumni of Jesmond and local businesses, asking for support in any form. The donations and encouraging letters received from past students truly established the firm sense of community that Jesmond embodies.

As a result, the Reflection Garden was completed mid-2007. With its completion, the Reflection Garden is a quiet, peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle of the main thoroughfares of the school; a place where students and staff can relax, reflect and meditate. It is also a place to remember and honour those that have passed away.

Jessica Phua - School Captain 2007

Many thanks to all involved in creating the Reflection Garden especially the following former students and staff who forwarded donations:

Barbara Budden
Rae Doah (nee Nixon) - 1961-1965
Angela Gerler - 1983-1988
Tanya Jedrzejak (nee Stokes) - 1975-1978
Greg Petfield - Deputy Principal 1968-1973
Sheryl Speers (nee Weatherstone) - 1968-1972 Bronwyn Von Finster (nee Harris) - 1967-1971
Barbara Whitcher - Head Teacher English 1983-1988

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Reflection Garden
An initiative of the current Jesmond student leadership group - the Student Representative Forum.