Year 9 Program

The Purpose and Concerns statement has been used to develop a Year 9 program unique to The Friends' School.  The program revolves around three clear focus areas:

• Identity
• Belonging / Connection to Country
• Outdoor Education (Challenge/Collaboration/Nature)

Our aim is to help our students develop as people who will:

• think clearly;
• act with integrity;
• make decisions for themselves;
• be sensitive to the needs of others and the environment
• be strong in service; and,
• hold a global perspective.

Specifically, we care about the holistic health, well-being and development of everyone in our learning community.

The course involves two Opportunity Block sessions each week and is centred on sharing, discussion, and personal reflection. Students are encouraged to explore their identity, the kind of adult they aspire to become, their relationships, their role in the world, and the ways they can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Each term features a signature event designed to deepen learning and connection:

• Term 1 includes an overnight experience at school, culminating in a sunrise on kunanyi and a reflective trek back.
• Term 2 invites families into the space to share stories, celebrate growth, and express gratitude.
• Term 3 focuses on Indigenous learning, with students engaging in a dedicated week of cultural experiences.
• The program culminates in Term 4 with a transformative six-night camp and a final celebration involving families and the wider community.

In addition to these events, students are encouraged to take part in meaningful service initiatives, complete mindset training, participate in Alternatives to Violence workshops, and engage in targeted programs that respond to the unique needs and challenges of their cohort.