Middle School

Head of Middle School - Jodi Fitzgerald-Tate

Year 8 Examinations

Tess Spalliera, Middle School Head of Learning

Our Year 8 students will complete their Semester 1 examinations on June 9 and 10. Exams will be held in English, Mathematics, Humanities and Science.

While these exams assess students’ knowledge and understanding, their primary purpose is to build confidence and develop effective study and exam-taking skills. For many students, this will be their second experience with formal exams, following the end of year exams in Year 7. Having already been through the process, students are typically more familiar with expectations and the exam format.

Experiences like this are important in helping students learn how to prepare effectively, manage their time, and approach assessments with confidence. Engaging seriously with the preparation process and building consistent study habits will support students to get the most out of their learning.

Home Group and subject teachers will be working closely with students in the lead up to the exams, providing a range of study techniques, revision strategies and resources to support their preparation.

Below are some helpful study strategies students can begin using in the lead up to their exams:

Establish a Study Routine

Set Consistent Study Times:
Encourage students to dedicate specific times each day to studying. A regular routine builds strong study habits and minimises last-minute cramming.
Divide Subjects Strategically:
Balancing study time across subjects, especially focusing on areas needing improvement, ensures a comprehensive approach.
Create a Dedicated Study Space:
A tidy, quiet space for revision helps minimise distractions and improves focus.

Healthy Habits

Eat Well and Stay Hydrated:
Good nutrition supports energy and focus. Healthy snacks and hydration are essential during study sessions and exams.
Prioritise Sleep:
Quality sleep is crucial for memory and focus. Ensure students get adequate rest, especially before exam days.
Incorporate Exercise and Relaxation:
Exercise and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, help manage stress and improve concentration.

Effective Study Techniques

Practice Exams:
Completing practice exams allows students to become familiar with question types and practise working within time limits.
Use Mind Maps and Flashcards:
These visual aids support memory and provide an engaging way to revise content.
Retrieval Practice:
Regularly testing oneself on learnt content improves long-term memory retention.
Seek Teacher Feedback:
Encourage your child to consult their teachers for guidance on areas they find challenging.

Exam Day Tips

Pack Essentials the Night Before:
Preparing all materials (pens, pencils, calculator, etc.) in advance reduces morning stress.
Have a Nutritious Breakfast:
A balanced breakfast supports sustained energy and focus throughout the exam.
Stay Calm and Focused:
Remind students that feeling a little nervous is natural. Encourage them to take deep breaths and focus on one question at a time.
Celebrate Their Effort:
Recognising the hard work your child put in, regardless of the outcome, builds confidence and reinforces positive study habits.

We wish all students the very best for their exams.

7-9 Athletics Carnival

Article by Middle School House Leaders

On Monday the 27th of April, Year 7, 8 and 9 students headed to Keilor Park Recreation Reserve for our annual Middle School House Athletics Day.

Students participated enthusiastically in a number of track and field events highlighting their eagerness for their House to take home the win. The competition between Curie, Edison, Newton and Pasteur was intense as students highlighted their skills in events such as shot-put, high jump, discus and long jump and raced in several running events.

Outside of these events students wore their house colours with pride. A sea of red tutus, green pom-poms, yellow face paint and blue sunglasses were seen in the crowd, worn by students in support of their house. A highlight for many students on the day was of course the staff vs student 4x4 relay, where the students were able to out-run their teachers across both races.

Despite an immense effort from students across each house, it was Edison house who was able to take home the win and hold the shield at the end of the day.

Below is a statement from our Edison House Captains as they reflect on the day:

The Athletics Carnival was a wonderful experience, everyone was trying new things, cheering on their friends as well as competing in events that many may expertise in. The environment was filled with joy and laughter, as well as adrenaline and excitement.

Many students competed in their favourite events, some even tried out new ones, and a few students had been cheering on their house the entire time. It was great to see students representing their houses using face paint, some fun accessories such as glasses, tutus, beaded necklaces and more, as well as a few signs rooting for their houses.

The day was not only about winning, but having a go, competing with friends, and cheering on for each other by the track. As a house captain, it was great to see Edison have so many participants in every race and event including the novelties. It was overall a great day, and Edison winning was an amazing bonus.

- Zoe P

Being a House Leader on the day was both fun and a bit challenging. It was really good to see so many people getting involved and supporting each other throughout the events. Everyone showed a lot of courage and teamwork, which made a big difference.

The atmosphere was very positive and full of house spirit. People were encouraging each other and engaging in all novelty events, and it felt like everyone was working together. As a House Leader, it was a good experience helping organise things and making sure everyone stayed involved.

Overall, it was a rewarding day and a great opportunity to build leadership and teamwork skills while being part of a supportive environment.

- Isabella G

All students who participated in events are commended for their efforts and thank you to our student House Leaders who supported a number of events across the day.

2026 Middle School Camps

Volunteer opportunitties for the 2026 Middle School Camps are now available on Rosterfy. Please visit the Volunteer Page to access Rosterfy, view the opportunities, and register your interest.

Event	Dates
Year 5 Sovereign Hill Camp 1 (First Aiders Only)	16th-17th September
Year 5 Sovereign Hill Camp 2 (First Aiders Only)	17th-18th September
Year 7 Camp - Lake Dewar	20th-23rd October
Year 6 Camp - Anglesea	9th-11th November

Volunteer Opportunities