Year Advisors

Year 7

Term  2 draws to a close, and our Year 7 cohort has had a fantastic term. After just six months of high school, they’ve moved confidently from tentative first steps to full strides in their journey.

The Great STEAM Challenge III concluded with Sami, Paul, Dima, Nyla, Kaia, and George rising to the occasion, tackling creative and challenging tasks across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Building on their success, Sami, Jove, Dima, Nyla, Kaia, Hien, and George also took part in an AI workshop, where they explored real-world applications of artificial intelligence, learned how AI systems operate, considered future implications, and even met a robot (and its robot dog)!

On the sporting front, Grace, Jessica, Andina, and Mele represented us in an under‑15 knockout netball match against St George’s Girls. Although the result wasn’t what they’d hoped for, they demonstrated remarkable strength and courage, especially in a game featuring older opponents.

Week 3 saw Year 7’s inaugural High School Cross Country event. Our runners showed great grit and determination, establishing themselves as formidable long‑distance athletes with endurance, stamina, and tenacity. Sodbileg, Luke, Kevin, Tyler, Dima, Noah, Ali, and Jessica went on to compete at Zone Cross Country in Week 6, exemplifying our school values of  Honour,  Excellence, Responsibility and Opportunity as they proudly represented J J.

Congratulations to all our Year  7s on an outstanding term! With your enthusiasm and perseverance, we can’t wait to see how you soar in Term  3!

Year 8

This term has been a dynamic and rewarding one for our Year 8 students, who have embraced a variety of enriching opportunities designed to foster both personal and academic growth. A highlight was their participation in a mentorship program, where several students were paired with senior peers and staff mentors. These sessions provided valuable guidance, built confidence, and helped students set meaningful goals as they prepare for the senior years of high school.

Another standout experience was the AI workshop, which introduced students to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Through hands-on activities and group challenges, students explored how AI impacts daily life and the future of work. Their curiosity and enthusiasm shone through as they collaborated to create their own simple AI tools and pitched ideas to peers and mentors.

Capping off the term was the much anticipated Cross Country Carnival, where Year 9 students demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and school spirit. Whether sprinting for the finish line or cheering on friends from the sidelines, every student played a part in making the event a memorable one. Congratulations to all who participated - you've made this term one to remember!

Year 9

As we near the end of Term 2, I want to acknowledge the persistence and effort shown by our Year 9 students. It has been wonderful to see such high attendance across the cohort. Turning up each day, even when things are challenging, reflects real resilience and contributes to a strong, supportive year group.

This term, our Berry Street lessons have focused on character strengths: the personal qualities that help us stay motivated, overcome setbacks and connect positively with others. Students have been learning to identify their own strengths and use them in practical ways, whether in the classroom, in friendships or when facing personal challenges. It has been inspiring to see students beginning to recognise that their strengths are tools they can rely on.

I also want to take a moment to congratulate Ciara, who was honoured at the Harding Miller Scholarship Awards celebration this term. Her achievement is a testament to her dedication and to the strength in character we have been encouraging in Year 9.

Thank you to all of Year 9 for the way you have shown up for yourselves and for each other this term. I hope you all enjoy a well-deserved break.

Year 10

Term 2 has been a period of growth, resilience, and rising maturity for Year 10. Now at the mid-point of their high school journey, students have continued to build on the foundations laid in previous years while beginning to think seriously about their future paths both academically and personally.

Throughout the term, Year 10 students have participated in a number of enriching activities, including subject-based excursions, cross-curricular projects, and whole-school events that promoted collaboration, creativity, and school spirit. A standout for many was the AI incursion, where students explored the practical and ethical implications of artificial intelligence in today’s society. This hands-on experience offered a valuable glimpse into the fast-evolving world of technology and innovation.

On the sporting front, Year 10 students represented the school with pride and determination during the Cross Country Carnival and inter-school competitions. Whether competing or cheering from the sidelines, the energy, sportsmanship, and support for one another was clearly visible and commendable.

This term has also seen increased engagement in leadership opportunities and volunteering initiatives, with students beginning to step up and demonstrate their readiness for senior responsibilities. Their growing sense of identity and self-awareness is evident, and it has been encouraging to see many taking greater ownership of their learning and personal development.

As Term 2 draws to a close, Year 10 is in a strong position to launch confidently into the second half of the school year. With subject selection and future planning on the horizon, now is the time for students to reflect on their strengths, seek advice, and continue striving for their personal best.

Looking forward to an exciting and purposeful Term 3.

Year 11

As we edge closer to the halfway point of senior school, it’s been a solid term for Year 11. There’s a noticeable shift happening - students are starting to settle into the rhythm of senior studies, balancing subjects, commitments, and the occasional bout of “wait… what week is it?” confusion.

This term saw students out and about across a few excursions and school events, and plenty getting involved in our cross country and athletics carnivals, representing themselves and our school with enthusiasm and good humour. Some of the key moments are those found in the quieter moments - class discussions, study sessions, group work, catching up on missed notes - this is where the real growth happens.

A highlight for many was finally receiving their senior jackets - a simple but exciting reminder that they are now well and truly in the senior ranks. The pride (and warmth!) they bring is well-deserved.

We encourage everyone to keep saying ‘yes’ to opportunities - be it leadership, sport, excursions, creative arts, or volunteering. You never know what doors will open when you get involved.

A reminder to students: senior school is a marathon, not a sprint. If things are feeling tough, you’re not alone. Keep leaning on your teachers, using the resources available, and asking for support when you need it. There is always someone here to help. Term 3 brings with it a ramp-up of assessment tasks and expectations, but also a chance to really step up and see what you’re capable of. Year 11 - you’ve got this. Keep showing up, keep supporting each other, and keep striving for your own version of success.

Year 12

Year 12 students have entered the final phase of their secondary schooling, with just one term remaining in the classroom. Our senior students are focused and forward-looking, whether they’re striving for a high ATAR or honing practical skills in preparation for the workforce.

The tone for the term was set during the Year 12 Wellbeing Day, where students refreshed their study strategies, learned how to support their mental health, and engaged with an expert panel about the many different paths to success. A heartfelt thank you to all who supported and inspired our students as they prepare for the next chapter of their journey.

This term has also marked a number of “lasts,” including the final Cross Country and Athletics Carnivals. Year 12 went out in style, hosting a successful BBQ and Bake Sale at the Cross Country to raise funds for their graduation dinner, and bringing fun and flair with their creative costumes at the Athletics Carnival. Their enthusiasm and team spirit were on full display, especially during the crowd-favourite teachers vs. students relay race.

To our Year 12s: the end is fast approaching. Use the holiday break to reflect, plan, and consolidate your knowledge, Trial HSC exams are just around the corner.

YOU ARE IN THE FINAL STRETCH – NOW IS THE TIME TO LOCK IN.