YEAR 9-10 SCHOOL NEWS
NAPLAN and Learning Behaviours
Over the past two weeks, our students have been focused on completing the NAPLAN assessments. We are incredibly proud of the way students approached the process, demonstrating positive learning behaviours, resilience and dedication to doing their best across the four tests. Despite the disruption that nationwide testing can bring, students showed great maturity and pride in the way they conducted themselves.
This week, our Learning Behaviours reports also went live. Students who achieved an average above 3 should be very proud of their efforts and the positive habits they are demonstrating in their learning.
For students who are not yet meeting our college-wide expectations, additional supports will be put in place to help them strengthen these behaviours. Our Learning Behaviours reflect the routines, values and School-Wide Positive Behaviours (SWPB) we aim to see across Western Heights College.
We encourage families to take some time to talk with their young person about their Learning Behaviours and celebrate successes, while also identifying areas for growth.
Wellbeing and Respectful Relationships Groups
This semester the school is running a series of small-group wellbeing programs for students in Years 8–10. These programs support the Victorian Government’s Respectful Relationships curriculum and focus on helping students build important interpersonal and communication skills.
Students are invited to participate through referrals from teachers and Sub School Leaders, with approximately 100 students currently involved across 14 groups this semester.
The sessions run once per week and include interactive discussions and activities on topics such as:
- Assertive communication
- Navigating conflict
- Restorative conversations
- Setting and respecting boundaries
- Power imbalances and coercion
- Accountability and the bystander effect
- Considering the impact of AI in relationships
These groups are not designed to single out students or address mental health concerns but rather provide a proactive opportunity for students to develop skills that support positive relationships both at school and beyond.
Participation is not mandatory, and students can return to their regular classes if they feel uncomfortable. Our goal is to create a supportive environment where students can build confidence and learn practical strategies for healthy relationship
Be Bold Be Heard
The first regional forum for students involved in the Be Bold Be Heard program was held at GMHBA Stadium. Girls from 20 schools across Victoria came together to officially launch the program, which aims to empower students to design and lead meaningful change within their own schools and communities.
