The Crest

Junior School

Mr Tom Nash, Head of Junior School

As we approach the end of the year, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had in the Junior School this year. On Tuesday, 3 December, we had the privilege of welcoming the 2025 Year 7 students to St Patrick's College for their Orientation Day. This occasion made me reflect on my first meeting with the current Year 7 cohort just one year ago at the same event – they have all come along a considerable way and should be congratulated for this. There have been many fond memories of the Junior School in 2024:

  • Year 7 Camp at Creswick Log Cabins: One of the key moments early in the year was the Year 7 camp at Creswick. It was a fantastic way to set the boys up for their first year at St Pat's, helping them nurture new friendships, learn about the rich traditions of our College and form a strong sense of belonging. The camp was a significant opportunity for the boys to bond, and it’s been wonderful to see how those early experiences have helped shape their time at St Pat's.
  • Year 8 Camp at Lady Northcote: The Year 8 camp was another memorable event. It provided our students with the chance to continue building upon the skills they developed in Year 7, especially in leadership, teamwork, and resilience. The camp also presented opportunities for personal growth and reflection, and we’ve have seen how it contributed to their development throughout the year.
  • Co-Curricular involvement: One of the best bits of working at the College is seeing the students engage in co-curricular activities. The diversity of the St Pat's co-curricular program is one of its strengths, with opportunities in sports, debating, performing arts, and more. Most recently, the Year 7-9 production of The Lion King Junior was an absolute highlight. The Year 7 cohort was lucky enough to attend a matinee performance last Wednesday afternoon, and it was a proud moment for the boys as they admired the incredible talent of their peers. Furthermore, it was an important opportunity to recognise and appreciate the dedication and hard work of their peers. Beyond performances, it’s been a pleasure to watch our students immerse themselves in various other activities, and I believe each student has left the year more well-rounded and better equipped for their future years at SPC.
  • Health and Wellbeing Programs: Throughout the year, our students have participated in a variety of programs designed to promote their health, wellbeing, and personal development. Programs like Elephant Ed, Brainstorm Productions, and Year Level Retreat Days have played a vital role in equipping the boys with the tools to navigate challenges and build resilience. Pastoral Care sessions, guided by their Homeroom Teachers, have also been key in supporting their growth, and I am grateful to our staff for their continued care and dedication.
  • Learning GRIT: This year, we’ve also focused on teaching our boys about the importance of GRIT – the combination of passion and perseverance. GRIT is about continuing to push forward, even on challenging days or tough moments. I applaud the students who have demonstrated GRIT throughout the year, and I hope they continue to apply this quality in everything they do. I encourage all students to keep showing up, even when faced with challenges, and to keep supporting each other in doing the same.

Acknowledging Our Homeroom Teachers: 

A heartfelt thank you to all the Year 7 and Year 8 Homeroom Teachers, who have been such a crucial part of our students’ journeys this year:

Year 7 Homeroom Teachers:

  • 7A: Ms. Amanda Rossato
  • 7B: Mr. Brett Earl
  • 7C: Mr. Josh Ebbels
  • 7D: Ms. Katrina Bird & Mr. Heath Pritchard
  • 7E: Mr. Brett Barfoot
  • 7F: Dr. Nicholas Moll
  • 7G: Mrs. Daniela Harrington
  • 7H: Mr. Jason Lappin
  • 7I: Ms. Samantha Bashford-Leger

Year 8 Homeroom Teachers:

  • 8A: Mr. Mark Stahl
  • 8B: Mr. Jordan Verbeek
  • 8C: Mr. Dirk Stickland
  • 8D: Mr. Andrew Wilson
  • 8E: Ms. Colleen Pope
  • 8F: Mr. Mark O'Callaghan
  • 8G: Mr. Ian Fernee
  • 8H: Ms. Jordyn McCarthy
  • 8I: Ms. Monique Allen

 

Acknowledging Our Year Level Coordinators: A sincere thanks to the Year Level Coordinators in the Junior School.  Your dedication and commitment to the students are deeply appreciated, and it’s been a privilege to work alongside you in fostering the growth of our Junior School students.

  • Year 7 Coordinators: Ms. Margie Dodd & Ms. Jacinta Burge
  • Year 8 Coordinators: Mr. Sam Cue & Mr. John Hearn

As we approach the end of the year, I want to thank all the boys for their hard work, enthusiasm, and positive spirit throughout 2024. I look forward to working with the current Year 7 students again in 2025, and I trust they will be wonderful role models for the new Year 7 cohort of 2025, helping them transition into St Pat’s life with ease and confidence.

To our Year 8 students, good luck as you move into the Middle School. I wish you all the best as you begin this new phase of your journey at St Patrick’s. I look forward to checking in with you throughout 2025 and hope to see how you continue to grow and excel.

 

Finally, I would like to wish the entire Junior School community a safe and happy Christmas break. Thank you once again for your support of the Junior School program this year. I’m looking forward to a productive and exciting 2025, filled with new opportunities for learning, growth, and success.

 

Tom Nash, Head of Junior School

Margie Dodd & Jacinta Burge, Year 7 Coordinators           

Sam Cue & John Hearn, Year 8 Coordinators