Year Advisors
Year 7
Throughout the semester, our Year 7 cohort has actively participated in a range of school events and opportunities that have strengthened their sense of belonging and school spirit. Students demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and enthusiasm at the Athletics Carnival, while others showcased their talents and dedication through performances at Big Night Out.
Students have also engaged positively in Year meetings, wellbeing initiatives, and other school events, building confidence, teamwork and positive relationships. It has been wonderful to see students embrace new experiences, support one another, and contribute to the vibrant culture of our school community.
Mr. Taouk
Year 8
Another term down, and we are already at the halfway mark of the year. Crazy to think that it was a year and a half ago that all of Year 8's fresh faces were coming to high school for the first time, and look at us now! We're like a well oiled machine and we're travelling at full steam through 2026.
So far this term, students in Year 8 have their fingers in quite a lot of pies. The school cross country was in week 3, and we had a HUGE turn out. Special congratulations to Aiden Morris who outran me, and earned himself a sausage sandwich and a can of drink. Zone cross country took place on probably the wettest day of term, and so our runners got soaked, but still had a great time.
JJ had its annual athletics carnival in week 7, which once again had an enormous turn out, with quite a few Year 8 students qualifying for zone athletics. Good luck to… Sami, Alicia, Leandrey, Darcy, Ronald, Luke, Grace, Lupe, Ava K., Kevin, Tiffany, Aiden, Henry, Mele, Konstance, Noah, Ray, Marvin, Ali, Yesugen, Pita, Jess, Laylah, and Hasan. Woah! That’s practically half the year group!!! So amazing!
Finally, we have started our RAISE Mentoring program every Thursday Period 3. Our chosen participants have had the opportunity to be partnered up with a mentor who, during their critical adolescent years, empower them to cope with life's challenges, build resilience, and strengthen their mental health.
Winter is most definitely on its way, and with it some cold weather and rain. I am encouraging all of our Year 8 students to start considering this coming into Term 3, and making sure they have appropriate cold weather uniforms. The last thing we want is anyone getting sick, or not having access to their learning because the weather has impacted their focus.
Have a safe and relaxed, well-earned break.
See you in Term 3!
Mr. Pitt
Year 9
Building Skills and Strengthening Connection
Our Year 9 cohort has made a strong and positive start to the year, demonstrating both maturity and a commitment to their learning across a range of areas.
In their Social and Emotional Wellbeing classes, students have been engaging in important learning around online safety. Through discussions and practical scenarios, they are developing a greater understanding of how to navigate the digital world responsibly. Topics such as respectful communication, protecting personal information, and recognising online risks have been a key focus, equipping students with the skills they need to make safe and informed choices.
Students have also embraced the opportunities provided through their elective subjects, where they are developing new and diverse skills. Whether it is in practical subjects, creative courses, or technology-based learning, Year 9 students are stepping outside their comfort zones and building confidence in their abilities. It has been encouraging to see students take pride in their work and show enthusiasm for learning in these specialised areas.
What has stood out most this term is the supportive and mature nature of the Year 9 cohort. Students have shown respect for one another, worked collaboratively in class, and contributed positively to the school community. Their willingness to support peers and approach challenges with a positive mindset has created a strong sense of belonging within the year group.
Mr. Truss
Year 10
Year 10 students have had a busy and productive term, demonstrating excellent involvement across a wide range of school activities. Many students participated enthusiastically in major school events and extra-curricular activities such as Big Night Out, the Sports and Cross Country carnivals, and the Volleyball knockout competition. These students showed school spirit and teamwork through participation in these activities and we are always excited to celebrate them.
Academically, students successfully completed their Half Yearly Examinations, studying hard throughout the term to work towards these assessments. They also attended the HSC Careers Expo, where they explored a variety of post-school pathways and future career opportunities. Over the past few weeks, a significant focus for Year 10 has been subject selection for Stage 6. Students have been carefully considering their interests, strengths, and future goals as they make important decisions about the courses they will undertake in Years 11 and 12. We look forward to supporting them as they begin this exciting next stage of their educational journey.
Ms. Fitzgerald
Year 11
As we reach the halfway mark of Term 2, our Year 11 students are officially halfway through their Preliminary year. The transition to senior school demands consistent effort, and it is pleasing to see that overall attendance across the cohort has been very strong. However, we have noticed a slight increase in morning lateness. Arriving on time is crucial for students to settle into their morning routine and catch vital administration notices during roll call, so please continue to encourage your child to arrive promptly each day.
With the colder winter months now upon us, we want to ensure all students remain warm while fully respecting the school uniform policy. Please take this opportunity to check the school uniform shop for approved winter items, including the official school jumper and jacket. Students must not wear non-uniform clothing pieces, such as hoodies or coloured trackpants, under or over their uniform.
Excitement is building for our upcoming Year 11 Camp, which will take place in Week 11. This three day, two night experience is a cornerstone of the senior years, specifically designed to foster teamwork, leadership skills, and lifelong peer connections. It is a fantastic opportunity for the cohort to bond outside the classroom environment. To ensure everything runs smoothly, families must regularly check the Year 11 Google Classroom announcements with their child so that no important medical, packing, or scheduling updates are missed.
Looking ahead, Term 3 will bring the formal Preliminary Exams. While this can feel daunting, consistent study habits established now will ease that pressure. Teachers are currently offering support, and students should utilise this time wisely to consolidate their class notes. Thank you for your ongoing partnership in supporting your child through this milestone year.
Mr. Nguyen
Year 12
As we move towards the final stages of the school year, our Year 12 students continue to demonstrate resilience, leadership and commitment to their future pathways.
A significant focus over the coming weeks will be preparation for Trial Examinations next term. Students are encouraged to carefully read all exam instructions and assessment information and use the upcoming holiday period wisely by following their study timetables and maintaining consistent revision habits. Preparation now will ensure students are best equipped to achieve their goals.
Our Year 12 leaders, events and the final Dance Crew performance at BNO were fitting reminders of the positive impact this cohort has had on our school community. Throughout their time at school, students have willingly stepped forward to support whole-school events, represent the school in sporting teams, and contribute to fundraising initiatives that benefit both the school and wider community. Their efforts have helped shape a lasting legacy for future students.
As the year progresses, many students have found themselves reflecting on the memories from their school journey. From Year 7 sit-up records and ten-minute wall sits, to dance routines, fake beards at Year 8 camp and countless shared experiences in between, these moments have helped create strong friendships and a unique year group culture.
Reflecting on their journey, Tevita and Izayah shared, “We’re really proud of how far we have come as a year group.”
With exciting opportunities still ahead, we look forward to seeing our students continue to work hard, support one another and take positive steps towards their futures.
Ms. Evans