From the Deputy Principal

Assemblies at the College

Assemblies, whether Early Years, Junior, Senior or Whole School, play a vital role in the life of the College. They provide opportunities to showcase learning experiences and celebrate students’ gifts, talents and achievements across a range of domains: academic, cultural and sporting.

Assemblies also serve as a platform to reinforce our school values. Over the past fortnight, students at both Junior and Senior School gatherings have been reminded to take ownership of their actions and choices, understanding that their behaviour impacts not only themselves but also those around them, including staff. In the Junior School, correct wearing of the College uniform has been a focus, while Senior School students have been encouraged to make responsible choices, such as arriving to class on time and with laptops charged, ready for learning. All classrooms have seating plans, and students are expected to remain in their allocated seats. By fostering responsible decision-making, students learn the importance of following rules and honouring their commitments.

School-wide events 

In recent weeks, the atmosphere at the College has been electric, with students and staff enjoying the excitement of Science Week and, more recently, Book Week. A highlight of the Senior School assembly was a demonstration by Dr Jeremy Just, featuring the testing of Year 8 bridges built during Pillars and Science classes. Students were challenged to construct bridges using limited materials, encouraging both creative and critical thinking.

A summary of Book Week celebrations will be shared at our upcoming Junior and Senior School assemblies. The week was packed with engaging activities, including poetry competitions, House debates, parades, 'Drop Everything and Read', pet reading and writing competitions. You can read more about our Book Week celebrations in this edition of The Fountain. 

Next week, we look forward to celebrating all things blue for Manresa Week, alongside Father’s Day. Wellbeing Week is also approaching, with a variety of activities planned for both junior and senior students. See the poster below for more details.

School TV: Supporting Student Wellbeing

As we reach the midpoint of the term, it’s natural for students to experience rising stress levels. For Year 11 and 12 students, fewer than 50 school days remain as they prepare for final assessments and examinations. The demands they face are significant, as they juggle academic expectations, cocurricular activities, part-time work and sporting or cultural commitments. Finding balance is essential. Students are encouraged to prioritise self-care by making time for activities that help them feel good and recharge.

The latest edition of School TV focuses on anxiety, offering families practical strategies to support young people in managing stress in healthy, constructive ways.

Anxiety is a normal and expected part of growing up. It plays a crucial role in helping young people prepare for challenges, stay alert to potential dangers and adapt to new situations. It can motivate them to study for a test, rehearse before a performance, or navigate unfamiliar environments with care. However, for many children and adolescents, anxiety can become intense, persistent and disruptive.

Today’s fast-paced and demanding world is filled with academic pressures, social expectations, family changes and constant digital media, which can all heighten stress and worry. When anxiety goes unrecognised or unsupported, it can affect a young person’s wellbeing, learning, friendships and self-confidence.

Adult carers need to understand how anxiety may present in children. Everyone experiences anxiety differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Please visit the link below for expert interviews, research insights and a wide range of resources:🔗 School TV: Anxiety and Young People

If students are struggling to find balance or feeling overwhelmed, we encourage them to reach out to their Pastoral Care or Class Teacher.