Wellbeing - Middle School

Year 5/10 Peer Support 

The Peer Support Program at the College between Year 10 and Year 5 students has been running fortnightly throughout Term 1. This program has been an integral part of welcoming and settling the Year 5 students into their new school and mixing with boys in other year groups.

Last Thursday, the boys focused on the physical dimension of well-being, so it was outside for games of handball, football and touch footy. The younger students looked up in awe at the positive attention they received from their Year 10 buddies as they ran about on the oval and yard. In turn, the Year 10 leaders rallied the groups together to make sure that everyone had a turn and a chance to participate, perhaps remembering their own peer support experience.

Well done to the Year 10 boys for creating lasting memories and your contribution to the SPC community. Well done Year 5 for bringing your enthusiasm.

Stephen Cooper

Year 5 Coordinator

Year 6 Camp - Canberra

At 6:30 AM on Monday 18 March, 215 excited Year 6 students gathered in the darkness of Smollett Place. This was the start of their Canberra adventure, a rite of passage for many Year 6 students across NSW. The boys clambered onto five coaches and set out on the long drive. 

Our three days in the capital were filled with invaluable learning experiences, comradery, and fun. At the Australian War Memorial, our students were regaled with the harrowing stories of the brave men and women who served. At Parliament House, they were able to see first-hand how the nation is governed and took part in a mock parliamentary debate during a highly engaging role-play activity. The Institute of Sport provided the boys with insights into the lives and training schedules of elite sportspeople. At the Canberra Deep Space Complex, our minds were opened to the wonders of the universe as we marveled at the known and unknown planets, constellations and black holes that lie above us. Yet nothing matched the enthusiasm and excitement in the air as we approached Questacon. The interactive displays and engaging models brought science and technology to life for students and teachers alike.

While the academic learning gained during our time in Canberra was significant, we must also acknowledge the social and emotional gains that the boys made. Positive steps towards greater self-reliance, personal responsibility and resilience were taken, and these will no doubt impact the other aspects of the boys’ lives as they continue to learn and grow this year.

I commend the Year 6 cohort for their behaviour, positive attitude, and engagement while on camp, and of course, also wish to thank the teaching staff who accompanied us on our tour of Canberra. Their care, time, and energy were unparalleled and allowed the boys to feel comfortable and supported. A heartfelt thank you to Mrs Meagan Compton, Mrs Holly Grant, Mr John McCarthy, Mr Patrick O’Connor, Ms Milena Osorio Navaez, Ms Ellen Pittorino, Miss Marcia Ribiero, Mrs Sarah Tatola, Ms Artima Thongthip, Mr Hayes van der Meer, and Mr Christopher Yallouris. 

Maria Capobianco

Year 6 Coordinator