Year 9 

A Year in Review: Year 9 

As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible journey the Year 9 cohort has shared. From exciting challenges and creative endeavours to heartfelt moments and lasting connections, 2024 has been a year of growth, resilience, and unforgettable memories. 

Term 1 ended with the much-anticipated Year 9 City Challenge, where students explored Melbourne's CBD to investigate how the city addresses the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Highlights included an Amazing Race to Federation Square, visits to iconic landmarks, and workshops on sustainability and community development, setting the tone for a year of learning and growth. 

In Term 2, the Year 9s showcased their creativity during the annual House Performing Arts Festival (HPA), with many stepping into the spotlight to act, sing, and dance. The term concluded with the Year 9 English Challenge, where students collaboratively wrote, starred in, and edited their own murder mystery short films, demonstrating their teamwork and storytelling skills. 

Taking on the role of Year 9 Coordinator in Term 3, I introduced the word "Glee" as our guiding theme. Students embraced this with enthusiasm, documenting moments of happiness in their 'glee journals,' participating in weekly trivia competitions, and engaging in a reflective Chapel session discussing the fleeting nature of glee compared to the enduring joy of a meaningful life. A mindfulness yoga practice helped them explore how movement fosters presence and contentment. The term ended on a high note with the Year 9 Languages Challenge, where students interviewed women from diverse countries to learn about their experiences, fostering empathy and global awareness. 

This final term together was filled with lasting memories. Camp Eildon in Week 4 tested resilience and cooperation, providing a week of adventure and laughter. In Week 6 the Year 9s donned their finest gowns and showed off their best dance moves at the Year 9 and 10 Formal – what a spectacular night! 

The term, and our time together as a cohort, culminated in our Wellbeing Days, where students celebrated their time at Shelford with activities that reflected camaraderie and gratitude. From Yin Yoga and commemorative teddy bear crafting to children’s party games and a spirited Zumba session, every moment was cherished. A class party and letters of appreciation to teachers added a heartfelt touch before we concluded with a reflective assembly where every year level presented on the highlights of the year.  

As we part ways, I feel immense pride in all the Year 9s have achieved and the joy they have shared. Although our time at Shelford is coming to an end, the connections we’ve built and the memories we’ve created will remain with us forever.

Mia Dimitrakopoulos

Year 9 Coordinator