Middle School Reflection
Middle School Newsletter: Term 4, 2025
As we reach the end of Term 4 and prepare to farewell another school year, we reflect with pride on the achievements, growth, and memorable experiences of our Middle School students. It has been a term filled with learning, creativity, connection, and celebration.
Year 7
Our Year 7 students are now just moments away from completing their very first year of high school, which is a tremendous milestone. Over the course of 2025, they have developed independence, resilience, and a stronger sense of responsibility as learners. Their communication, organisation, and self-management skills have strengthened significantly, and they are well prepared for the increased expectations of Year 8.
A key highlight this term was the Science team’s Zoo Excursion, where students explored animal adaptations and ecosystems. Staff were thoroughly impressed by the maturity, curiosity, and independence shown throughout the day. Additionally, Year 7 Arts students enjoyed excursions to the Sticky Institute in Melbourne, gaining insight into the world of zines, design, and independent publishing. These hands-on learning experiences allowed them to deepen their creativity and engage meaningfully with the arts.
Year 8
Term 4 was an exciting time for our Year 8s, particularly with the School for Student Leadership (SSL) selection process. We were delighted to receive 26 thoughtful and well-prepared applications. After a rigorous interview process, we are proud to announce our successful 2026 SSL team: Alex Hobbs, Khai Nguyen, Gracie Muldoon, Anika Dowdy, and Hazel Jollife-Wilczek.
We congratulate these students on their success and look forward to seeing the leadership skills they will develop next year at the Term 2 Snowy Campus program. We will also have a mirror team at PHSC in 2026, who will work in tandem with our SSL representatives to support the design and implementation of the Community Led Project in Semester 2.
Throughout the term, Year 8 students continued to demonstrate growth in their learning and peer relationships as they prepare to enter the final stage of Middle School.
Year 9
Our Year 9 students have had a vibrant and dynamic final term in Middle School as they prepare to transition into Senior School next year.
In Week 4, students participated in their Mock Interviews, arriving dressed in professional attire and engaging confidently with our community interviewers. We extend a warm thank you to Trish Alevizos for her seamless organisation of this enriching experience.
In Week 7, the Year 9 Production class presented their interpretation of Masquerade by Kate Mulvany. Performing to near sold-out audiences of families and friends, the students displayed creativity, professionalism, and persistence. Their work was a testament to months of dedication and collaboration. Congratulations to all involved and thank you to all those who joined us in the audience.
Next week, students will embark on their highly anticipated Wilderness Week camps: a true PHSC rite of passage. With Surf, Kayaking, Canoeing, Hiking, and Horse Riding all operating simultaneously from Monday 1 December to Friday 5 December, this experience promises challenge, adventure, and unforgettable memories. We extend our deepest gratitude to the many staff members who have meticulously planned these programs to create the best experience possible for students.
As they conclude their time in Middle School, we wish this resilient, thoughtful, and community-minded cohort the very best as they step into Senior School in 2026.
Additional Updates
Year 7 2026 Orientation Day will be held on Tuesday 9 December. There will be no formal classes for current students on this day.
The Year 7 Transition Assist Program has once again been a great success, supporting some of our more vulnerable incoming students as they prepare for the organisational and navigational demands of high school life.
In preparation for 2026, we have finalised adjusted Home Groups for Years 8 and 9. Students provided friendship preferences, and the Middle School Team has made considered decisions to ensure balanced, positive, and supportive learning environments.
Our Middle School Team for 2026 remains the same:
Year 7: Shannon Hennessy
Year 8: Mark Rossouw
Year 9: Zoe Keystone
Middle School Leader: Ashleigh Phillips
On behalf of the team, thank you for your partnership, communication, and encouragement as we completed our first full year together as the Princes Hill Middle School leadership team. We wish everyone a safe, restful, and joyful break, and we look forward to welcoming our Middle School students back in 2026.
Ashleigh Phillips
Middle School Leader