From the Head of Senior School

For our Senior School students, the past two weeks have involved preparing for and sitting their Semester 2 examinations. During the final days of exam week, our Year 7 to 9 students participated in various organised activities, including ACER testing, subject-specific programs, and seminars on internet safety. Many Year 9 students also engaged in their initial training for the Peer Support Leader program. This initiative is aimed at supporting students in Year 7 who are transitioning into Senior School life. The program also promotes our school values in cultivating our older students' leadership skills and collegiality as they transition into Year 10 and beyond.

Now that examinations have concluded, we encourage you to assist your child in reflecting on their study and preparation processes. As their exam results arrive, it is an opportune moment for students to assess their achievements, strengths and areas for improvement. Remind your child to adopt a growth mindset when considering their results – while their results do offer valuable feedback, they do not define their potential. Instead, they can serve as a foundation for setting realistic goals and planning for future improvements. Here are some reflective questions you might suggest to guide your child's thought process:

• What aspects of my study were effective? Recognising successful study habits can bolster confidence.
   
• What challenges did I encounter? Identifying areas for improvement enables students to refine their study strategies moving forward.
   
• What steps will I take next? Establishing specific goals and action plans can help make the process both manageable and motivating.

Looking ahead, our students will begin the Early Commencement Program (ECP) next week, where they will transition into classes for the upcoming academic year. This initiative allows students to familiarise themselves with new subjects, learning objectives and expectations, and meet the teachers who will support them in the year ahead. As students encounter new subjects, they may find themselves with new classmates. While forming new friendships and collaborating with different peers can sometimes present challenges, it also serves as an opportunity to broaden their social networks and engage with individuals who may offer new perspectives. 

We encourage students to approach these new relationships openly, and actively participate in group discussions and activities. It can also be helpful for students to proactively reach out to their new classmates and participate in group study sessions. Building a supportive network of peers not only enhances their social experience but contributes positively to their academic journey.

Dawn Davis

Head of Senior School