Cranbourne Campus News
Casey Youth Summit
Last Friday five Year 9 students from both campuses had the privilege of attending the Casey Youth Summit at Bunjil Place. It was an amazing opportunity to meet other young people from different schools across the district and discuss several matters that could be improved in the City of Casey. There was also an additional focus on leadership, with several workshops teaching the importance of emotional intelligence, improvisation and public speaking. We discussed how to read the room and understand others’ feelings through their words and body language.
The day was kicked off by a short speech from a successful entrepreneur and engineer who spoke about the importance of being committed, consistent and persistent. He shared some of his life long struggles with us, touching on obstacles like his identity and race, and through examples taught us to always embrace all opportunities that come our way in life.
Following this, we participated in four interactive skill based workshops about these different topics that were designed to get us out of our comfort zones and meet new people. They told us that the faster we begin to do something we find uncomfortable, the quicker we become comfortable doing it.
One of the highlights from the day was a ‘guess the song’ competition. Shout out to Ella Corrie who really knows her music and won us all free t-shirts from “Riddim", the music group that helped host the events of the day.
I’m sure we’ll all agree that we are grateful for this wonderful experience and that we all made the most of our time being inspired and learning some valuable skills that will benefit us in the future.
One of the key lessons we bring to you. Is when an opportunity presents, take it with both hands….. the faster we begin to do something we find uncomfortable, the quicker we become comfortable doing it.
Report by Anthony Krotwaar and Stella Ploudies.
Other CRA attendees Emanwella Ador, Ella Corrie, Matt Fernandez
Change
As we reflect upon a change of classes and teachers with the onset of Headstart I find the sage advice of Stella and Anthony from our previous report, ringing in my ears . .. . "The faster we begin to do something we find uncomfortable, the quicker we become comfortable doing it."
Much time is spent making every effort to ensure students are given lots of opportunity to study what they feel they enjoy and that class sizes and abilities are balanced. Add to this the complexity of the school needing to timetable classes where added support by Learning Support Officers is maximised and the need to ensure our teachers are teaching in the field of expertise, and the result is a timetable that resembles an enormous jigsaw puzzle where the slightest change has the effect of throwing much else out of balance. It is for this reason that we , parents, House Leaders and teachers need to work together to support the young people to embrace their new classes and the opportunity to meet new friends and to learn from different teachers. With the new academic year, heralded by Headstart, comes the opportunity for a new and for some, improved mindset. Let's hope all embrace it.
Investiture Assembly
Two months ago we elected the new Student Leadership Team for 2023, however it wasn't until this week that the opportunity arose for us to formally induct them through our investiture assembly. This was a lovely occasion and it was a great opportunity to welcome some family back in for our college assembly. below is the opening speech of our newly inducted leaders Bonny and Kenny.
Kenny ⇒ "Good morning guests, staff and students. We are honoured to be representing you as your College Captains for the coming year".
Bonny ⇒ "Along with the 2023 Student executive, we are so excited to be leading you next year, and hope to make 2023 the best year St. Peter’s College has seen.
Through serving the school community we aim to leave a positive impact on the culture at St Peter’s that will be maintained throughout your high school years, even after we have graduated".
Kenny ⇒ "Over the next 12 months, our focus is to maintain and improve our school environment based on involvement and inclusivity. Our school culture is strengthened by students who have a go at the opportunities our school provides. We challenge you to get involved in an event or activity within the school, whether it be applying for leadership, participating in carnivals and house activities, or joining an SIS team. Student involvement is a key component of achieving a positive environment, and we will work alongside the SRC and House Captains to brainstorm and initiate projects for our school community. The culture of our school is dependent on the participation of students, but it is up to us to decide whether we want to make the most of them. We aim to involve as many students as we can with these opportunities, to get the most out of your time at St. Peter’s College. Our culture is equally defined by supporting your fellow students in whatever they get involved in; whether it be cheering for them in a competition or simply encouraging them".
Bonny ⇒ "We also want to emphasize the importance of our role of listening to the school community. By listening to students, staff and parents, we hope to let your inputs shape how our school evolves. We are both always open to your concerns, suggestions or feedback.
In 2023, we hope to improve the student experience at St. Peter’s College for all of us here, and for the future students to come. While there are many opportunities available, the true benefit is going to come from student involvement, and that is a process that starts now. As we start the 2023 academic year tomorrow, this is the opportunity to try new study techniques and find out what works for you, laying the foundation for next year. We encourage all of you to try your best in this upcoming year, and along the way we will be there to support you. Thank you".
Jeremy Wright
Deputy Principal - Head of Cranbourne Campus