Secondary School
Year Six Secondary School Introduction
This week, we held an afternoon meet-and-greet between our current Year Six families, our Heads of House, and secondary students. A group of Year Nine students showed their emerging leadership qualities by hosting tours of the secondary school and answering questions about life in secondary.
Heads of House engaged with parents to discuss pastoral care, academic tracking, and lines of communication in the secondary school, as well as topics such as homeroom activities, the Year Seven Camp, and approaches to IT use.
We also spoke about the importance of our current students being good hosts to the new students arriving next year, many of whom will be boarders.
It was a successful afternoon, and we look forward to welcoming our Year Six students into Secondary School next year.
Country Week
This weekend, our Country Week athletes head to Perth to represent the school in twelve teams across six sports. We are also taking a speech and debating team for the first time in years, as we look to provide an inter-school pathway for this programme.
Over 120 secondary students will attend Country Week, and there will be a modified timetable at school to accommodate those who remain, particularly in Years Eleven and Twelve. This will include a mix of academic workshops and co-curricular opportunities.
At assembly this week, we sent our athletes off in style, and we wish them all the best as they represent our school. Country Week is one of the most valued experiences at Grammar, with a fantastic culture around it, and is a highlight of the school calendar for many students.
As we continue the recruitment process for a new Director of Sport, we will ensure Country Week continues to add enormous value to the student experience.
Canberra Tour
In Week Eleven, a number of Year Nine students will attend the Canberra Tour. This tour is organised by Mr Ritchie, Head of Humanities, and will focus on civics, including visits to Parliament House and the High Court. Students will also visit the Australian War Memorial.
A domestic tour at this stage of their schooling provides a valuable opportunity for students to experience travel independently and to see new and interesting places, helping them gain a broader understanding of the world beyond their local communities.
Trips like this also create meaningful opportunities for new friendships to form and existing ones to grow stronger.
We wish the students and staff all the best for the tour.
Mr Jordan Owenell | Deputy Principal - Head of Secondary
A Memorable First Regatta for our Rowers
Ten students travelled to Perth to compete in a rowing regatta at Champion Lakes, marking their first-ever competition. The journey along Albany Highway provided a great opportunity for the group to bond, with plenty of laughter and team spirit building along the way.
On arrival, the students faced tough, windy conditions on the water and strong competition from schools across Perth and Bunbury. Despite the challenging environment and their relative inexperience, they performed admirably and rowed with determination and composure throughout the day.
Their efforts were rewarded with an outstanding second-place finish, along with two third-place results across events ranging from single to quad sculls. The final race added an extra layer of challenge, taking place in the rain, but the team pushed through and finished strongly.
Overall, the trip was a memorable and enjoyable experience, filled with fun, growth, and lasting memories. Special thanks go to coach Alice Nixon and all the parents who made the long journey to support our rowers.
Dr Paul Mitrovski | Science Teacher / Rowing Coach
Music Review
On Wednesday night, the Years Nine and Ten Contemporary Music students presented their Music Review to a pizza‑munching, packed house of supportive parents and friends. The Year Nine students performed four great numbers, including Dreams by Fleetwood Mac, Can’t Stop by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Are You Gonna Be My Girl by Jet. Every student performed with courage and conviction.
The Year Ten students brought the house down with songs by Blondie, Crowded House, Oasis, Fleetwood Mac, and The Eagles. More courage, resilience, and impressive teamwork were on display as these students performed for their audience and supported each other both on stage and from the crowd.
Congratulations to everyone involved!
Ms Emma Luxton | Director of Music
Try A Trade – Southern Regional TAFE
Over the last few weeks, two groups of Year Ten students had the opportunity to participate in Southern Regional TAFE's popular Try-A-Trade program, gaining valuable hands-on experience and insight into potential career pathways.
Our first group explored Electrotechnology and Interior Decorating and Design, and the second group participated in Electrotechnology and Cabinet Making. Across the two-day experiences, students were immersed in practical activities and learning environments that provided a realistic glimpse into life as a TAFE student and future tradesperson.
Students were challenged to develop new skills, think creatively, and apply problem-solving techniques while working alongside experienced trainers. Whether wiring electrical circuits, designing interior spaces, or learning the precision and craftsmanship required in cabinet making, students embraced the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and experience the demands and rewards of vocational education.
Thank you to Southern Regional TAFE and their lecturers for providing these engaging and valuable experiences for our students.
Mrs Renae O'Donnell | VET & Careers Coordinator
L and P Plate Program from 1 July
This program provides individuals with their L or P plates the opportunity to complete a one-day First Aid course and receive a First Aid kit for their vehicle. All for free.
To book or find out more, call 08 9841 4212 or email albany.subcentre@stjohnwa.com.au
