KLA Feature - Year 9
It has been another productive term for our Year 9 students. They have continued to build on their learning and grow as active members of our school community.
Term Two began with an important reflection opportunity during our Formation Day on the 3rd of June. Students took part in a number of activities which focused on the theme of ‘Being stewards - caring for our common home’. We looked at a number of environmental issues including palm oil, waste and fast fashion. We examined various aspects of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si and our students had the opportunity to experience a number of different prayer experiences. One of the highlights of the day was when we focused on our ‘call to action’ and came up with a variety of creative pieces which reflected our role as stewards of God’s creation. Some of our Year 9 students demonstrated their amazing rapping and song writing skills. They also had the opportunity to share a picnic lunch with their friends.
Later that week, our Year 9 cohort enthusiastically participated in Multicultural Day. Students and staff came together to celebrate the rich cultural diversity within our school community. Year 9 students enthusiastically embraced the Great Aussie Barbeque, as well as the cultural dance displays, showcasing a variety of traditions and customs. It was a fantastic day filled with learning, colour, and connection! It was wonderful to see so many Year 9 students proudly representing their culture in the dances!
Throughout the term, Year 9 supported the College’s Winter Appeal, collecting items for those in need during the colder months. Students donated warm clothing, blankets, gloves, beanies and toiletries showing empathy and community spirit. Some of us got right into the spirit by wearing our ‘winter woolies’ to school for the day!
In Homeroom, students have been taking part in a variety of fun and engaging Homeroom Challenge activities. These included word puzzles, guessing games, baby photo challenges, and even competitions featuring homeroom pets. These weekly activities have been a highlight for many, strengthening peer relationships and encouraging teamwork in a light-hearted setting. As it stands, the leader so far of the Homeroom Challenge is … 9 Jackson!
Last week we began the process of electing our new leaders for the Student Representative Council. All students had the opportunity to nominate six peers who they thought would make good leaders. These nominations will be shortlisted and the shortlisted students will be invited to a leadership interview as we continue the process. We look forward to announcing our new leaders for the upcoming year. Our current leaders, Isabel (9 Gilmore), Grace (9Jackson), Grace (9 Kenny), Seerat (9 Macarthur), Abby (9 MacKillop) and Sophia (9 Wright) have continued to lead their homeroom and play important roles on the SRC. They also played an integral role in the College Tours for prospective families and we thank them for their service!
A small group of Year 9 students will next week start the Western Sydney University Fast Forward Program. This exciting initiative aims to support and inspire students to consider tertiary education pathways. Through this program, students will explore their interests and gain a deeper understanding of their future learning options.
Our Year 9 students have been active on the sporting field, representing the College in soccer, netball, and nine-a-side rugby league. Their commitment, teamwork and sportsmanship were on full display throughout these competitions. We wish all of them the best of luck as they approach the finals in their respective competitions. In addition, several Year 9 students have shown wonderful support for our senior students by assisting HSC Dance candidates with their practical works. Their help and dedication have made a real difference in helping prepare the HSC students for their practical exams, which are fast approaching.
Looking ahead, we look forward to the Semester One College Awards Ceremony, where we will celebrate academic achievement, school involvement, and personal growth. We know many Year 9 students have shown excellence and dedication this term, and we look forward to recognising their efforts.
As always, thank you for your continued support. We are proud of everything Year 9 has achieved and look forward to what the remainder of the year will bring.
Mrs Catherine Easterbrook
Leader of Learning Year 9
