A Long Way from Day One: Year 7’s Journey of Growth

What a long way our Year 7 students have come! From the nervous excitement of their first steps through the gates of Marian to now confidently navigating their new school life, it has been a journey of growth, learning, and new experiences.

Their transition began on Orientation Day, where they met their homeroom teacher and classmates, taking their first steps toward building friendships. From there, they embarked on a series of activities during Transition Week, designed to help them feel at home. They participated in their laptop induction, where they learned key functions of the school’s learning platform, explored the Resource Centre and Student Services, and organized their lockers in their homeroom, setting themselves up for the year ahead.

With the support of a strong transition program, students have embraced the challenges of high school with enthusiasm. From mastering their timetables and finding their way around campus to joining clubs and participating in inter-school sports, they have fully immersed themselves in the Marian community.

Over the term, their confidence has blossomed, and they are now ready to take on even more. As they gathered in anticipation for camp, they looked forward to stepping out of their comfort zones. The experience will not only push them to conquer challenges and build resilience but also strengthen friendships and create lifelong memories.

To capture just how much they’ve grown, we asked our Year 7 students to reflect on their first term at Marian.

From their transition to high school to settling into their new routines and making new friends. Here’s what they had to say:

Orientation Day

Overwhelmed. I was completely overwhelmed, with whirling thoughts twisting around my head. The day that was meant to help me settle was beginning in a strange way. The atmosphere felt unfamiliar, along with the people. To be honest, I had no idea how I was going to survive at Marian College. I felt torn up, disheveled.

Then, during afternoon tea, I came across my primary school friends and took a moment to reflect. I realised that years ago, I hadn’t known them the way I did in that present moment. And then, with even more random scenarios swirling in my mind.

Poof!

The swamp of worries and the pricks of anxiety washed away. I felt at ease, understanding that it might take time to fully settle in. But deep down, I knew and can now honestly say that Marian College is exactly where I am meant to be.

Aleena Ahmad: 7 Delany

Laptop Induction

The day I got my laptop was a rollercoaster of emotions. I remember not being able to sleep the night before due to an overload of enthusiasm. The first hour consisted of general information on how to use our laptops properly, and after that, we were handed our new devices. I was so excited for this moment because the thought of organisng my work and becoming more independent in my learning thrilled me.

Lastly, we set up our laptops, and now, using it daily feels second nature. Whether it's completing assignments, researching, or working with classmates, my laptop has become an essential tool. Being able to take it to and from school has made learning more flexible and accessible, allowing me to stay on top of my work.

Melina Rego: 7 Kildare

The Amazing Marian Race

The Amazing Race, which took place on the 5th of February, was a wonderful experience for all the Year 7s. The day I found out we were doing the Amazing Race, I was filled with energy and enthusiasm as we were going to work together to complete the race! The Year 7s were mostly split up with people they didn’t know. I thought it was a very engaging activity, especially since we were starting to settle into Year 7 and making new friends.

I remember that on the day of the Amazing Race, I was put into groups with random people I didn’t know, and I was a bit nervous. But once the race started, we were all filled with immense energy and worked together to complete the activities! I thought we did an amazing job with teamwork and cooperation throughout the race. Although we didn’t win, I still thought it was a really fun and engaging activity to be part of.

Lastly, they announced the positions of the teams that completed the race the fastest, and in the end, we also got lollipops! I thought the Amazing Race was a great experience, and I hope we get to do it again soon. Although, now I really know my way around the school and where to find the resources and teachers I need.

Ghazala Moin: 7 Tullow

1st Day of Year 7

Leaving primary school and my friends was terrifying, but the second I stepped into the gates of Marian College, I felt a sense of belonging, along with a mix of nervousness and excitement. Coming into high school meant I could be a better version of myself. I felt grown up as I decorated my locker and settled into my homeroom. Now, I am learning new things in my classes, I have friends, and I am ready for the challenges and opportunities that high school will bring.

Lola Richards: 7 Nagle

Family Engagement Evening

The engagement evening was a fun and educational night. When I arrived at 5 o’clock, the halls were buzzing with energy. Students and parents were directed to the 9-10 building, where free food and drinks were provided. Everyone was having a great time—parents were interacting with new families and teachers, while students were mostly chatting with their friends.

Then, at around 6 PM, we were all directed to the auditorium, where teachers discussed the future of Marian and what was happening right now. Every lovely speech about school rules and other important topics was followed by an eruption of loud applause.

As soon as the information night was over, students introduced their parents to their homeroom, which was located in the 7-8 building near the front of the school. This night helped everyone settle into Marian, giving families a better understanding of the school environment and what to expect moving forward. Now, my family has a clearer idea of what I’m experiencing at school, which makes it easier for them to support me as I continue my journey at Marian.

Ameylia Brosas: 7 Patrick

Settling Into Marian and Embracing New Opportunities

It has been a journey coming to Marian. I was scared at first, but as I got to know everything, I started feeling more comfortable. I'm really enjoying Physical Education, Design, Art & Technology, Humanities, and Maths. The teachers are really nice and always willing to help when you’re having trouble.

The language excursion was a lot of fun - we had fish and chips and got to see different animals. We’ve also had assemblies, which have been great for setting expectations.

I’ve joined the choir and volleyball team, and I even tried out for House Captain. I can’t wait for the announcements and to see what the rest of the year has in store!

Mariam Kande:7 Tullow

Year 7 Camp - Rounding off Term 1

The Year 7 camp was an unforgettable experience for all involved. Over the course of the camp, students participated in various activities that challenged them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Through teamwork, personal growth, and shared experiences, the camp allowed students to build stronger relationships, develop resilience, and grow spiritually. The key activities and achievements that made the Year 7 camp such a memorable and enriching experience.

Throughout the camp, students worked in teams to accomplish various challenges. Whether canoeing, completing initiative tasks, or taking on the leap of faith, students learned how to communicate effectively, delegate responsibilities, and support one another. The teamwork and collaboration developed during the camp will have lasting benefits in the classroom and beyond.

The camp allowed students to forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones. Through shared experiences and challenges, students were able to connect on a deeper level, creating bonds that will carry forward into their school life. The camp environment was a great way for students to get to know each other outside of the typical classroom setting.

The camp also provided an opportunity for spiritual growth, with time set aside for reflection and contemplation. Whether through group discussions, individual reflection time, or quiet moments of personal connection, students had the chance to explore their values, beliefs, and sense of purpose. This was a powerful aspect of the camp experience, helping students connect with themselves and others in a more meaningful way.

The various activities at camp were designed to push students out of their comfort zones and encourage them to face challenges with resilience. Whether it was climbing the high ropes, completing a difficult initiative task, or trusting their peers during the leap of faith, students learned the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. The camp experience helped students develop the resilience they need to face life's challenges with a positive attitude.

The Year 7 camp was a fantastic success, providing students with an enriching experience that they will remember for years to come.

The journey is just beginning, and there is no doubt that our Year 7 students have a bright and exciting path ahead.

To further improve our Transition program, families will be sent a quick survey via Operoo. The information collected from this survey will help us continue to enhance our program, ensuring it meets the needs of students transitioning from primary to secondary school.

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