My Greatest Penrhos Period Ever: A transformative partnership with Lucy Peach

Last year, students took part in a bold and meaningful initiative, welcoming acclaimed educator and performer Lucy Peach to Penrhos to deliver her celebrated program, My Greatest Penrhos Period Ever, to Year 5, 6 and 7 students and their families. What unfolded was far more than a seminar. It marked a cultural shift in how our community understands, discusses and celebrates the menstrual cycle.

Families were invited to a special performance and breakfast, with fathers and male caregivers encouraged to attend as visible champions of menstrual literacy. Each dad received a raffle ticket, with prizes awarded to both father and daughter – a simple but powerful gesture that helped normalise conversations often left unspoken.  

As one mum reflected, “It was amazing to see how Lucy is changing the narrative… I really wish I had access to something like this growing up.” 

Following the show, every Year 5 and 6 class participated in a series of workshops with Lucy, learning through movement, creativity and embodied practice – an approach that is essential when teaching young people about their bodies.  

Students described the experience as “epic,” “funny,” “empowering” and “eye opening,” with one sharing, “Suddenly I understand that a period isn’t just a few days of grump, but a whole month of different stages.”

The success of last year’s program was so significant that Wayne, Lucy and I were invited to present the initiative at the recent International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS) Conference in Melbourne, which is testament to its innovation and impact.  

This year, the partnership has grown even further. Lucy delivered a keynote to Junior School staff and mums, and each Year 5 class will now participate in six dedicated lessons through her Meet Your Power program.

This work is not simply educational; it is foundational to student wellbeing. By giving girls, the language, confidence and embodied understanding to trust their bodies, we are equipping them with lifelong tools for self-awareness, resilience and agency. 

By investing in pilot programs such as this, the Penrhos College Foundation's Helping Hand initiative helps make innovative and empowering learning experiences possible for our students.  

To learn more about the Foundation and how you can support its work, visit GIVING | Penrhos College