Year 9 Darrabi/GIRLs Program News

It has been a positive and productive period in the Darrabi program with the official new class of 2026, with students continuing to strengthen their connections with one another while building confidence across a range of activities both inside and outside the classroom. These students have had a variety of opportunities to demonstrate respect, compassion, and integrity within the classroom and outside the classroom.

During commencement, students worked together to co-create the classroom expectations that guide our learning space and how we choose to interact with others. By contributing their own ideas about respect, effort and responsibility, they developed a shared sense of ownership over the environment. This process was supported by a series of team-building activities to help students get to know each other better and establish trust within the group. Students worked together to communicate and collaborate to problem-solve and encourage one another.  This was a great way to build a positive classroom. 

There have also been opportunities for students to contribute to the wider school community. Students assisted the library team with setting up decorations for the Christmas period at the end of last year, offering a helping hand. Students have also been conducting Talk Time, an initiative introduced last year that invites members of the college to spend time with the group. During these sessions, students have had the opportunity to speak with Lena (Health & Wellbeing Leader), Mr Glare (Assistant Principal), Mr Wilson (Business Manager) and Mr McDonald (College Principal), learning more about their roles within the school and their passions. Talk Time provides a chance for students to reflect on their own week and get to know members within the school. 

In their Mathematics and PE/Health sessions, students have been engaging in a mix of physical activity and technology-based learning. Time in the gym has allowed students to focus on fitness and wellbeing, and running Year 7 Mini-Athletics Day provided students with an opportunity to develop their communication skills as well as run activities. Virtual reality activities have provided an interactive way to connect with learning in new and engaging ways.

Preparation has also been underway for the upcoming Wilsons Prom Camp. Students have taken part in several practice hikes, including the 1000 Steps, Mt Cannibal, and Grants Picnic Ground. These hikes have helped students build endurance while learning how to support one another through physical challenges. Alongside this, students have been developing practical outdoor skills such as setting up tents and learning how to safely use trangias for cooking.

M9D students have started extremely well, encouraging and motivating each other. They are looking forward to going on their 65 km hike at Wilsons Prom. Wishing them the best of luck. 

Miss Olanda Mossad 

Darrabi Program Leader