Junior School  Report

The past few weeks have once again been a busy time across the Junior School, with our students taking part in a wide range of opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom. It has been particularly pleasing to see students challenging themselves, exploring new interests and stepping outside their comfort zones. 

For our Year 9 students, there has been a strong focus on preparing for the future. Students participated in Morrisby Interviews, providing them with an opportunity to reflect on their interests, strengths and aspirations as they begin to consider their future pathways.

A small group of students also participated in Vocational Explorer Days, gaining practical insights into a range of industries including Commercial Cookery, Healthcare, and Hair and Beauty. These experiences are an important part of helping students connect their learning with potential future pathways. 

Our Year 9 students have also participated in the SMART ASSK program, delivered by Ballarat Community Health. The program focuses on party safety, helping students develop practical strategies to make informed decisions, look out for themselves and their friends, and understand how to stay safe in social situations. These conversations provide students with important knowledge and skills as they become increasingly independent and navigate new social experiences. 

Sport has continued to provide our students with opportunities to represent the College and work as part of a team. Congratulations to our students who participated in Eureka Year 7 and Year 8 Volleyball. It was fantastic to see students demonstrating teamwork, commitment and sportsmanship while representing our school. 

Some of our Year 8 students have also been involved in Girls in STEM and Boys in STEM programs, giving students the opportunity to explore STEM-related interests and consider the possibilities that these areas can offer for their future. Providing students with exposure to different pathways and experiences is an important part of broadening their understanding of what they can achieve. 

Within our wellbeing space, a number of Year 7 students have been participating in the Seasons for Growth program. This provides students with an opportunity to explore change and transition, develop resilience and build strategies to support their wellbeing. 

It has also been a wonderful few weeks for building connection and community. Our Junior School Social provided students from Years 7–9 with an opportunity to socialise, have fun and strengthen friendships in a safe and supportive environment. We also celebrated Book Week, giving students an opportunity to engage with reading and celebrate the enjoyment and creativity that books can bring. 

One of the highlights for me has been seeing our Year 7, 8 and 9 students present their Legacy Projects to their Homegroups. Students had been working on these projects throughout the term before presenting their ideas and reflections to their peers.

It was fantastic to see so many students step up, have a go and challenge themselves to speak in front of their cohort. For some students, this was well outside their comfort zone, making their willingness to participate and share their work even more meaningful. These experiences are an important part of developing confidence, communication skills and a sense of contribution within our school community. 

As we look ahead into Week 10, there are still plenty of opportunities ahead. Our Year 7 and 8 students will participate in Backflips Against Bullying, providing them with practical strategies to build positive relationships and contribute to a respectful school culture.

We will also see our Year 7 and 8 badminton students compete at the State Finals, which is a fantastic achievement and an opportunity for them to represent the college at the highest level. 

Our Year 9 students will also take part in Mock Interviews, giving them further experience in communicating their skills, strengths and aspirations as they continue to prepare for their future pathways. 

It is a great reflection of the Junior School that there is such a diverse range of opportunities available to our students. From sporting competitions and STEM programs to pathway planning, wellbeing initiatives and opportunities to speak in front of their peers, each experience contributes to developing confident, capable and well-rounded young people. 

We look forward to finishing the term strongly and celebrating the many achievements of our students along the way.