Middle School
Year 7s Embracing the Unknown: A Journey of Growth and Discovery
Starting high school is a big leap, filled with excitement, nerves, and plenty of unknowns. For our Year 7 students, the first few weeks have been a whirlwind of new routines, faces, timetables, and responsibilities. But rather than shying away from the challenges, I have been pleased to see them embrace the unknown with curiosity and resilience.
Transitioning from primary to secondary school is one of the biggest changes in a young person’s life and is crucial for building confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. At College, we are committed to supporting our Year 7 students as they navigate this journey, ensuring they feel equipped to take on new challenges.
A New Environment, New Possibilities
One of the first hurdles for our Year 7s was learning to navigate a bigger campus. Gone are the days of a single classroom and one teacher—now, they move between different rooms, manage lockers, and keep track of timetables. While it can seem daunting at first, students have quickly adapted, proving that they are more than capable of handling this new level of independence.
Our Buddies Program, where Year 12 students mentor Year 7s, began this week and has already played a vital role in easing the transition into Senior School.
Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone
Beyond the classroom, Year 7 students have been stepping outside their comfort zones by trying new activities and making new friends. With summer sports getting underway again, music ensembles, and co-curricular opportunities, students have a chance to discover new passions and broaden their friendship group.
This willingness to try new things is exactly what high school is about—exploring interests, building connections, and learning from experience. Research from the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) highlights the importance of co-curricular activities in fostering student engagement, resilience, and wellbeing. Our Year 7s are living proof of that, embracing every opportunity that comes their way.
A Promising Year Ahead
The journey of a Year 7 student is only just beginning, but already, they have shown incredible resilience and adaptability. Whether mastering a new subject or making new friends, they are proving that the unknown isn’t something to fear - it’s something to embrace and enjoy the challenge.
As the year unfolds, we can’t wait to see what our Year 7s achieve. With their enthusiasm and determination, there’s no doubt they will make the most of their high school experience.
Reminders
- Tuesday 18 Feb – Year 8 YOLO Day in Port Fairy