Middle School in Term 1

Term 1 has been an excellent beginning to the year, with a wide range of engaging activities, meaningful learning opportunities, and chances for students to strengthen their connections within the school community. We are very proud of the enthusiasm and commitment our students have demonstrated throughout the term.

Year 9 - ‘Myself’

Year 9 students focused on developing self-awareness and setting goals. They created SMART goals for the term and participated in a range of activities designed to help them get to know one another and build a sense of belonging within the school.

Year 10 - ‘Belonging’

Year 10 students engaged in activities aimed at strengthening their sense of connection and community within the school environment.

Year 10 Workshops and Tomorrow Day

Our Year 10 students took part in Tomorrow Day workshops, which included two key sessions: Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman, along with a Skill Booster workshop and a Careers workshop.

These sessions prompted students to reflect on identity, self-expression, and gender expectations. Tomorrow Man explored the impact of rigid gender norms, encouraged students to challenge toxic masculinity, and supported the development of emotional resilience and genuine connections. Tomorrow Woman focused on self-awareness, reducing self-judgement, and building confidence in communication and emotional expression.

In the Careers workshop, students developed an understanding of the skills required when applying for jobs and created their own resumes.

The Skill Booster sessions highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and reducing distractions. Students identified common interruptions—such as phone notifications and Teams alerts—and adjusted their settings to minimise disruptions. They were also introduced to strategies for managing cognitive overload. We encourage families to continue these conversations at home and support students in applying these strategies.

Year 10 Momentum program & Duke of Edinburgh

Students completed a full-day First Aid course delivered by external providers. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many students appreciating the hands-on nature of the experience. They developed practical skills in areas such as CPR, wound care, and responding to incidents like jellyfish and snake bites.

Looking ahead to next term, Momentum students will participate in METEC Drivers Ed, while Duke of Edinburgh students will attend their overnight camp. Additionally, all Year 10 students will have the opportunity to undertake self-organised work experience at the end of Term 2.

Year 9 REACH program

Our Year 9 students participated in the REACH workshops this week, with a focus on creating a sense of belonging and building emotional resilience and courage. Feedback provided from students was immensely positive and students felt that this workshop helped them develop connection and understanding of themselves and those around them. Students also participate in a skills workshop to develop understanding of VCE and study skills.

Year 9 camp

We are pleased to be running Year 9 camps again this year. Students will attend according to the semester in which they study Geography. The camp combines elements of both the Mathematics and Geography curriculum, with students conducting research focused on the city of Melbourne.

Students in 9A to 9E will attend the city camp on 14–15 May. Details will be available on Compass shortly, so please keep an eye out and ensure all required arrangements are completed.

Students in 9G to 9Z will attend their camp later in the year, on 29–30 October.

Uniform reminder

As the holidays approach, please ensure any required uniform items are purchased in preparation for Term 2. Bob Stewart Uniform Shop:

https://www.bobstewart.com.au/school/box-hill-high-school

Preparedness for Class

We ask that families check in with their child to ensure they are bringing the necessary equipment to class, as some students have been arriving unprepared. It is also the responsibility of students to catch up on any missed learning due to absences, including those related to extracurricular activities such as sport. Students are encouraged to contact their teachers if they miss a class to avoid falling behind.

Thank you for your continued support throughout Term 1. We look forward to another positive and engaging term ahead.