Year 9 News

A Great Start to the Term

It has been fantastic to see our Year 9 students settle into Term 3 with a positive attitude and strong focus on their learning. Students have continued to demonstrate resilience and maturity as they engage in classroom activities, work collaboratively with their peers, and strive to achieve their personal best.

Learning Focus

As we move through the term, students are encouraged to remain organised by keeping up to date with classroom tasks and homework. Regular attendance and consistent effort are key to achieving success across all subject areas.

Respectful Behaviour

We continue to reinforce our school values of Respect, Responsibility and Excellence. Thank you to the many students who consistently demonstrate these values each day through positive behaviour, wearing the correct school uniform, and treating others with kindness and respect.

Attendance Matters

Every day at school counts. Regular attendance gives students the best opportunity to keep up with their learning, build positive relationships, and participate in the many opportunities available throughout the school year. We encourage families to notify the school if their child is absent and to support punctual attendance each day.

Classroom Update

Science: So far this term in Year 9 Science, students have been exploring the nervous system, investigating how neurons communicate, as well as the roles of the brain and spinal cord. They have also examined the roles of the different parts of the brain and what happens when different parts of the brain are damaged.

A highlight of this was participating in an observation of a sheep brain dissection, which gave students the opportunity to compare real brain structures with the diagrams and models they had studied in class. 

R&R: Students have been exploring a range of mindfulness activities designed to help them recognise and manage their emotions, reduce stress, and improve their overall wellbeing. Through guided breathing exercises, grounding techniques, short reflective activities, and mindful movement, students have developed practical strategies that they can use both at school and at home to support a positive mindset.

In addition, students have been working collaboratively with their peers to discuss healthy ways of responding to challenges, identify factors that can influence mood, and share strategies for maintaining emotional balance. These discussions and group activities have encouraged respectful communication, active listening, teamwork, and empathy. It has been pleasing to see students engage thoughtfully with the program and support one another in creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Looking Ahead

Students should continue preparing for camp and upcoming assessments. Please encourage your child to seek assistance from their teachers whenever needed. We also encourage students to become involved in extracurricular activities, sporting opportunities, and school events throughout the term.

Thank you to our Year 9 students and families for your ongoing support. We look forward to another successful few weeks and celebrating the achievements of our students as the term progresses.

If you have any concerns regarding Year 9 students, please don’t hesitate to contact me at (03) 5165 0600 - option 2 or Jeff.Derkacs@education.vic.go.au

Jeff Derkacs

Year 9 Team Leader