Leader of Year 8 Wellbeing

Make Bullying History!

Year 8 had the wonderful opportunity to listen to Brett Murray from the Life Choices Foundation speak about making “Bullying History.” It was a powerful talk based on real-life experiences, which made its impact even more meaningful for the students.

The students further reflected on their own experiences of bullying, or of being bystanders to bullying behaviour, and were empowered to recognise their own value. A key takeaway for the students was the importance of the statement: “If we don’t stop bullying, we can’t start dreaming.” Every student should have the chance to be their best self and to develop, grow, and dream free from being judged, ridiculed, or held back by the thoughts and actions of others.

Year 8 will continue to explore the impact of bullying by designing their own anti-bullying campaign, with the most effective ideas to be implemented in the Year 7 Pastoral Program.

The day was very beneficial for me and many others, with Brett Murray really not only informing us about bullying and its impact on many kids but sharing his time being bullied with us, connecting with some of us on another level. The day was very fun with numerous activities, bringing friendships closer together. Alex also did a great job educating us about bullying, sharing stories about kids in the real world, while bringing the religious aspect into his talks.

Ethan Guirgis

The day was interesting especially with the opening talk Brett Murray gave us about his personal experience was interesting and eye opening. The talk from Alex and his activities had us thinking in groups and standing up against bullying situations. It was very beneficial for the year 8 grade.

Wade Patterson

The Make Bullying History Speech was very motivational, he was very confident at speaking. Brett Murray was inspirational and his bullying story was sad but it's good he turned his bullying history into a platform to help others. He was exceptional at sharing his story and what to do if you or someone you know is being bullied. He was great.

Tirion Wilkinson

The year eight reflection day was a wonderful experience. It provided the chance to slow down and really think about the impact of bullying in our school community. Throughout the day we listened to stories, took part in activities, and had honest conversations about the effects of bullying on our peers.

We learned that bullying isn’t just physical, it can be verbal, emotional, or even online. What stood out most was the horrific impact that bullying had on our presenter Brett Murray.

The day encouraged us to reflect on our own behaviour and to think about how we can be kinder, more supportive, and more aware of the people around us. It showed us that standing up for others, speaking out, and choosing to help has a major impact on the lives of those around us. 

Overall, the reflection day helped us understand that creating a positive school environment is something we all influence through the way we treat one another.

Miriam Youl

Sports Carnival

Congratulations to all the Year 8 students who attended the athletics carnival. It was a fun filled day with a lot of healthy competition, striving for personal best records and a lot of fun. I am so proud of Year 8 and how they entered into the spirit of the day. 

Debaters

Congratulations to our Year 8 debating students who volunteered their time for the Catholic Schools Debating Competition. They all demonstrated maturity and significant personal growth as they competed against other Catholic schools in the area, including Kogarah Marist, St Patrick’s Sutherland, and OLM.

The College is extremely proud of your efforts, as well as the personal growth and confidence you have developed over the past six weeks. I would personally like to thank Tirion Wilkinson, Lexa Larkin, Wade Patterson, Charlize Hall, and Brooklyn Snowball for their wonderful contribution to the Year 8 St Aloysius debating team.