Junior School

Term 2 – Welcome: 

Welcome back to Term 2! I hope all students and families had a chance to enjoy a restful and enjoyable break over the holidays and Easter period. It’s been great to have the boys back – there’s a real energy about the place, and the Junior School has picked up right where it left off: vibrant, busy and full of life.

In Term 1, our focus across both Year 7 and Year 8 was about starting the year in the best way possible – building strong foundations to support success, in all its forms. As we neared the end of the term, we spoke to the boys about finishing what had been a really encouraging and purposeful start. Routines and consistency matter – and it’s these early habits that help set the tone for the rest of the year. That’s why we’re reinforcing the same message again: start well. Pay attention to the small things – the 1 percenters – because they matter. Be on time. Bring the gear you need. Interact respectfully with those around you. Wear the uniform properly. And if you need support, reach out – to a friend, a teacher, a trusted adult. I’m looking forward to a meaningful and rewarding term ahead.

Term 2 co-curricular program:

One of the highlights of an education at St Patrick’s is the co-curricular program, and Term 2 offers a whole range of opportunities for students to get involved. Personally, I’m really looking forward to coaching the Year 7/8 Ryan House Football Team on Wednesday nights as part of the BAS competition – and I can’t wait to see the College Production Newsies. The effort and commitment from both staff and students involved has been nothing short of impressive. I’d encourage all students to consider giving something a go this term. Getting involved is a great way to feel more connected to the College, build friendships, and try something new. There’s genuinely something for everyone.

Elephant Ed Workshops:

In the Junior School, our Pastoral Care program continues to focus on developing respectful, thoughtful young people. Through the Respectful Relationships curriculum, all students complete one wellbeing lesson a fortnight across the year. These sessions are important – they give our boys tools to better understand themselves and the world around them. In addition to this, last week our Year 7 and Year 8 students participated in workshops facilitated by Elephant Ed. Year 7 completed ‘Sexuality in the Media – Part 1’ while Year 8 explored ‘Part 2’ of the same theme. These workshops explored:

• The types of sexualised images seen in everyday media
• How to critically evaluate this imagery, especially around body image and consent
• An introduction to the concept of sexual consent
• The emotional and social impacts of pornography and how to respond to its influence

These sessions are delivered in a respectful and age-appropriate way, with time for discussion and reflection.

Junior School Homeroom Leaders:

Congratulations to all the students who put themselves forward for leadership positions this term. Nominations for Year 7 and Year 8 Homeroom Leaders closed today, and we were thrilled to receive more than 50 applications from each year level. It’s always encouraging to see so many boys willing to step up and contribute to their Homeroom and the wider Junior School. From here, we’ll be undertaking a process to elect two leaders per Homeroom. We look forward to announcing those student leaders in the coming weeks and working with them to help support their peers throughout Term 2.