Year 8 News

Meet the Team

Our Achievements:

The students have continued with a solid performance throughout the term.  The last month has seen students in Year 8 achieve a total of 4813 merits, these points can then be redeemed for canteen vouchers or rewards from our merit cabinet.

The following graph shows how your child is tracking in their collective Form Group.  It has been an enormous effort across the cohort.  Please congratulate your child on their great work.

We noticed an escalation in minor and major behaviours at the end of Term 2. Accordingly, during Term 3 we have focused primarily on ‘Expected Behaviours’. The students have been working on aligning individual behaviour with our College Values of; RESPECT, GROWTH, UNDERSTANDING and BELONGING.

Throughout Term 3 many students across the cohort have been recognised and awarded at our weekly student briefing for their commitment to the College Values.  Canteen vouchers have been issued to pupils who demonstrated expected behaviours.

All classes have been working hard; however, we had a standout class this term who continued to ensure that they are punctual and ready to learn. They showed respect, sought growth in their learning and received minimal demerits for minor and major behaviours. 

You are the winners of this term’s challenge and will be the recipients of a pizza lunch at the start of Term 4.  Keep up the great work!

Our Next Steps

This term we have noticed regression in the students' readiness to learn.  It appears that some students are arriving to class late, with no books, pens/pencils or charged laptops.  This has been particularly concerning in the past few weeks since we have been in an assessment period, where students are completing tasks which are essential in determining their learning outcomes.  It is important that our young people are being supported in their organisation skills. Please check-in with your child and determine whether they have sufficient stationery items.

We are also addressing the importance of being on time with students and relating this to the real-life expectation of being ‘on time’ for employment.  Next term, we will intensively focus on career exploration through our Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program.  During these sessions we expose students to various industries, roles, and work environments, to enable participants to identify their strengths, interests, and career aspirations. It will enhance critical soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability, which are crucial in any professional setting. Additionally, the program will foster the improvement of decision-making skills, goal-setting abilities, and the understanding of workplace expectations including punctuality, all of which contribute to long-term employment success. Students will have the opportunity to develop resumes, cover letters and sit mock-interviews to help prepare for the possibility of part-time or casual employment.

Year 8 Values Awards

Congratulations to the following students who were successful in receiving a Year 8 Value Award this term.  These students are setting a great example in our college and were celebrated for their effort in our Term 3 Year 8 assemblies.

Learning Showcase, Year 8 Day Camp

On Friday, the 6th of September, Year 8 students had an unforgettable day at Kinglake Adventure Camp, filled with exciting activities and team-building challenges. The day kicked off at 7am where we travelled to the camp site by coach to start with initiative-based games that encouraged collaboration and problem-solving. Students then braved the thrilling giant fall and tree climbing, testing their courage and strength. They also enjoyed nature walks, immersing themselves in the beauty of the surroundings of the Kinglake Ranges, where they discussed the geographical topic of landscapes and landforms associated to our Humanities study unit.  The students also experienced an exhilarating scavenger hunt inspired by the Hunger Games, which sparked friendly competition and adventure.

Team Building Games

The camp fostered strong social connections and encouraged teamwork, as students collaborated and supported one another throughout the various activities. Such school events are important and essential for the student experience because they provide opportunities for personal growth outside the classroom. They help students build resilience, confidence, and leadership skills in a fun, hands-on environment. The Day Camp strengthened peer and teacher relationships, promoting effective communication, and taught problem-solving in real-world scenarios. By stepping outside their comfort zones and tackling new challenges, students developed a greater sense of independence and a deeper connection with their peers, contributing to their overall development and well-being.

Tree Climbing, Exploring Flora and Fauna

The delicious food provided was a highlight, fuelling the students' energy and enthusiasm for each activity. Overall, it was a fantastic outing filled with fun, teamwork, and memorable experiences!  Many students were tired after a long day, arriving back at school by 7pm. The students proudly represented Craigieburn Secondary College and demonstrated their best behaviour towards the camp facilitators. 

Bush Walk

We would like to thank the Kinglake Adventure Camp for hosting our Year 8s and extend a big thanks to our Year 8 Form Teachers who attended and made this opportunity possible for the students.

(Year 8 Attendees of The Kinglake Adventure camp)

Important Reminders

Re-stock pencil cases for next term -

The school holidays are a great time to replenish pencil cases and ensure that supplies are fully stocked for Term 4.  Many students by this time in the year, have lost items which are essential for the completion of learning.  Could you please ensure your child has enough pens, pencils, and exercise books for their return to school next term.  If they require more supplies, please re-stock over the holidays. 

Tissues

Also, please ensure that your child has tissues packed in their bag.  This is particularly important during hay fever season and periods of cold weather.

Drink Bottles

Many students are asking to leave class to get a drink. This impedes learning time and is generally not granted.  Could you please encourage your child to bring a water bottle to class to ensure they are hydrated throughout the day.

Year 8 Key Dates:

SEPTEMBER:

Final Day of Term 3 – Friday 20th. 2:26pm Early dismissal

OCTOBER:

Term 4 Starts – Monday 7th October

School Assembly - (Celebrating Our Year 12s) Weds 23rd October

NOVEMBER:

Student Free Day – Monday 4th November

Melbourne Cup Day – Tuesday 5th November