Middle School Report

Message from the Director of  Learning

Middle School

 Ms Michelle Collins 

As the academic year draws to a close, it is with great pride and admiration that we reflect on the journey our Year 9 and 10 students have undertaken over the past twelve months. This has been a year of challenges, achievements, and incredible growth, and we couldn’t be prouder of the resilience and determination shown by our students.

Our Middle School teachers have worked tirelessly to support the growth and development of our students. Whether it was adapting to new programs, organising enriching extracurricular activities, or providing invaluable mentorship, each member of our staff has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic and personal journeys of our students.

To our students, your enthusiasm for learning, resilience in the face of challenges, and support of one another have been wonderful to see throughout this year. It's inspiring to witness the effort you've put into your studies, the creativity you've brought to the classroom, and the positive energy you've infused into our school community.

We would also like to acknowledge our appreciation for the parents and guardians who have been our partners in education. Your unwavering support, involvement in school activities, and commitment to your child's education have made a significant impact on their academic and personal growth. The collaboration between home and school is fundamental in the achievement of our students, and we are very thankful for your support.

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable break and looking forward to seeing you again for another exciting school year in 2025.

Michelle Collins

Director of Learning – Middle School

2024 Reflection from Middle School Captain, Margaret Martin

This past year has been incredibly fulfilling and an overall wonderful opportunity to give back to the community. My team and I have been involved in many efforts, among them the planning and organisation of events or the drafting of new proposals with the consultation of our teachers and cohort; we have also found ourselves developing a diverse skillset as we tackled challenges, including organisation, responsibility and collaboration. 

In my opinion, the best part about holding a leadership role – especially in a close-knit school like Westall – is that one can serve as a bridge between staff and student voice, a mediator that hears both sides and can negotiate the best outcome. Communication and collaboration are both vital to the development of the sub-school and broader community, and thus a captain must ensure their teachers and peers can work together, allowing for positive changes and leading the way for future cohorts down the line.

All in all, I want to thank everyone who contributed to our efforts this year (including those who simply enjoyed them) and I wish all the best to those who assume captaincy in 2025.

Middle School Wellbeing Day

Earlier this term, our Year 9 and 10 students participated in Middle School Wellbeing Day, a cornerstone event in our school calendar dedicated to nurturing mental health, resilience, and positive relationships. The day was filled with engaging activities and meaningful workshops, designed to equip students with practical strategies for managing stress, navigating friendships, and taking care of their overall wellbeing.

The day began with an inspiring presentation on anti-violence from the Pat Cronin Foundation, where students learned about the importance of empathy, respect, and taking care of each other. The speaker encouraged students to foster positive environments both at school and in their broader communities, leaving a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.

Throughout the day, students rotated through a variety of activities, each contributing to different aspects of wellbeing. A petting zoo provided a calming and joyful experience, allowing students to connect with animals and enjoy a moment of tranquility. The jewellery-making station encouraged creativity and mindfulness, giving students a chance to focus and express themselves through art.

The smoothie bikes were a standout favorite, blending fun with a healthy twist as students powered their own nutritious drinks through pedal power. This activity emphasized the importance of healthy eating and staying active in maintaining both physical and mental health.

Workshops on social and emotional regulation were invaluable, teaching students techniques to manage stress and navigate the challenges of teenage life. These sessions included practical exercises, such as breathing techniques and positive self talk, which students can carry forward into their daily routines.

Sporting activities added an energetic element to the day, fostering teamwork and physical activity while highlighting the role of exercise in reducing stress and boosting mood. Students were encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, try new sports, and enjoy the benefits of being active with their peers.

We are proud to offer initiatives like Wellbeing Day as part of our commitment to supporting the overall development of our students. Days like these remind us all of the importance of resilience, connection, and self-care as we navigate the challenges and joys of life.

We would like to thank the Pat Cronin Foundation, Man Cave and Animals Fur All for their involvement with our Wellbeing Day.