Year 8 Update 

Cherishing our Strengths 

It has been wonderful to welcome back the Year 8 cohort for 2024 back onto campus. Their shared enthusiasm and excitement to see each other was evident and I know that many were keen to get back into the swing of things. There was a buzz amongst the students as GSV teams were confirmed and the whole school took part in the Colour Run. It certainly created a positive and memorable moment for our community. 

Our Year 8 Wellbeing Mentors, Ms Audrey Li (8Y) and Mr Timothy Ritchie (8Z) feel lucky to have such superb students to support this year. What a perfect way to start 2024! 

Getting back into a school routine takes time and I know that it won’t be too long until all students are taking pride in their uniform and organisation. Taking care to get settled back at school ensures students are set up for successful learning outcomes. 

It was excellent to see how many Year 8s signed up to represent their respective Houses in the upcoming Senior School House Swimming Carnival. This will take place Thursday 29 February. If your daughter is not swimming, she is still encouraged to attend and support her House at this event, what a perfect way to connect with friends and spread House spirit!  

Last week we began our Quærite Wellbeing Program. I asked the Year 8s to think about their own strengths, as well as those of the whole cohort. Students completed brainstorms in groups, to help us understand the strengths of Year 8, and how that makes us unique. We will use these words throughout the year as a reminder about the positive community we cherish. 

Below is a word cloud: ‘Year 8s strengths are…’. 

The word for Year 8 this year is ‘cherish’. This word will guide our approach to 2024 and how we make it a special and memorable year.  

Joy Ashwell Callaway

Year 8 Coordinator

Humanities and VCE History Teacher