Middle Years

It has been a busy Term One and I’ve been proud of how the Middle Years students have started their 2023 school year. The Year 7s have transitioned into the Senior School environment well and have taken the challenges of assessment tasks, NAPLAN and new teachers all in their stride. The Year 8s are certainly comfortable working in myPEC and are starting to work well with others (this is an ongoing focus with Year 8 in the Middle Years). While the Year 9s are ready and eager for the City Experience next term and starting to show empathy and an understanding of other people in the broader community. This will be an ongoing focus for the Year 9s as part of the Micah program. All students are ready to extend their knowledge and they should look forward to Term 2. 

Prime and Energy Drinks at School

We have observed an increasing number of students consuming energy drinks here at school, particularly a drink called Prime. This trend is not unique as it is becoming increasingly common across all schools in Victoria.

Prime drinks have a warning listed on their label that they are not suitable for people below the age of 15, and similar energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine and sugar. While they may provide a quick boost of energy and improve concentration, they can also have serious negative effects on young people’s health.

Research shows that the excessive consumption of energy drinks can lead to anxiety, restlessness, and irritability. They can also disrupt sleep patterns, increase heart rate, and blood pressure, and in some cases cause seizures. Due to these potential health issues with energy drinks, if students have any form of energy drink, including Prime, at school, they will be asked to put the drink away in their bag. If it continues, the drinks will be confiscated. Instead, we encourage students to use healthy snacks and drinks, such as fruits, vegetables, water, and natural juices, to support their growth and development. Please feel free to discuss the problems associated with having energy drinks consumed at school with your child/ren.

After such a busy Term, I wish everyone a happy easter and hope all Middle Years students (and families!) have a restful break.

Ben Hawthorne

Head of Middle Years