Wellbeing - Senior School
As we mark Founder’s Day this week, it is timely to reflect on the focus areas that each cohort in the Senior School has been addressing within their allocated Year Coordinator Meetings and Pastoral Care Lessons during the year. The activities, along with guest speakers, align with the dimensions outlined in the College’s Wellbeing Framework.
Year 9
This year in Year Coordinator Meetings, our focus has been on the theme of ‘Respectful Relationships,’ encouraging students to consider how they interact with their peers, teachers, families, and themselves. This theme was particularly meaningful around International Women’s Day, where discussions centred on the importance of respect towards women. We have also explored the topic of bullying, highlighting the roles of ‘Upstanders’ and ‘Bystanders’ and the lasting impact that bullying can have on others.
In Pastoral Care Lessons, Term 1 began with setting personal goals ahead of Year 9 Camp, followed by a focus on inclusivity and belonging through Harmony Day. In Term 2, we have shifted attention to practical skills, helping students develop their organisation and study habits as they navigate the challenges of Stage 5. We also introduced ways to use AI tools effectively to support their learning. Most recently, we have reflected on the significance of National Reconciliation Week and the importance of walking together in unity. As the year progresses, we will continue to build on their academic and social development to help them become confident and capable young men.
Year 10
In Semester 1 2025, our Year 10 cohort has embraced the theme "Embrace, Empower, Include", inspired by the EREA Touchstone ‘Inclusive Community’. This theme has been central to our Year Coordinator Meetings (YCMs), Pastoral Care Lessons (PCLs), and the overall culture we are fostering in Year 10 which is underpinned by supporting our peers through positive action. There have been meaningful conversations around resilience, motivation, perseverance, and the importance of respectful communication, exploring the difference between banter and insults. Our PCLs have provided valuable opportunities to reflect on goal setting and engage in thoughtful discussions around key themes including International Women’s Day, Harmony Week, Sustainability, Road Safety, and Reconciliation Week. These lessons have encouraged students to think critically, share openly, and appreciate diverse perspectives.
In YCMs, we have celebrated the achievements and efforts of our students through initiatives like the inaugural ‘Hard Yards Award’, recognising students who consistently demonstrate perseverance, resilience, and dedication, and the ‘Star of the Week’ Award, acknowledging exceptional academic and co-curricular achievements. We have also marked birthdays together, celebrating the little moments that strengthen our cohort’s sense of unity. Thanks to our dedicated Student Leadership Group, Year 10 has also enjoyed exciting community-building events like the ‘SPC Sketching Skirmish’ and the upcoming ‘Basketball Competition’, helping to foster connection and school spirit.
Year 10 is well on its way to living out the values of inclusivity and empathy, making 2025 a memorable and meaningful year.
Year 11
Term 2 has been a time of growth and discovery for our Year 11 students. Building on from our Pastoral Care Lessons in Term 1, which focused on self-reflection, goal setting and dealing/managing stress – students were able to define or better yet, refine their study habits and practices. This term has also marked several important rites of passage for Year 11. Students proudly received their Senior Blazers, symbolising their transition into leadership roles within the College. They tackled their first, formal assessment block with increasing independence.
Year 11 are stepping confidently into Senior School life, equipped with tools, experience and a growing sense of purpose. This will filter on as the focus will shift towards championing resilience as later in the year, we aim to tackle some challenging topics that youth face in their daily lives.
Year 12
During Term 2, our Year 12 students have taken time to reflect on their identity, personal stories, and the life challenges that continue to build their resilience as they approach their final months at the College. Through meaningful conversations that celebrate and explore healthy masculinity such as the session with guest speaker Daniel Principe, and through sharing their own experiences and exploring personal boundaries, students are growing in confidence and maturity.
In the coming weeks, they will continue to engage with important topics surrounding men's health and wellbeing. Programs such as BATYR and a specialised panel discussion will support students in developing strategies for mental fitness, preparing for the Trials, HSC and life beyond school while maintaining a strong sense of self as they move toward graduation.
Robert Simpson
Director of Senior School