Year 9 & 10

Giant step for Year 9s

This year marks an important milestone in your educational experience. Year 9 is the time to start taking more responsibility for your learning. It is the year where you will need to sharpen your ability to work independently, manage your homework, study for tests, and balance your free time. The key to success this year is taking ownership of your time and learning. Be proactive, plan ahead, and most importantly, trust in your ability to manage the tasks at hand.

You will also find that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to studying. This year is the perfect opportunity to experiment with different study methods, note-taking styles, and strategies that work best for you. Whether it is colour-coded notes, flashcards, mind maps, or something entirely different – find what suits you best. Do not be afraid to ask for advice and help from your teachers, friends, and even me! We are all here to support you as you discover your own unique approach to learning.

But beyond academics, Year 9 is also a time for personal development. It is important that you respect not only others but also yourself. Cultivate the values of honesty and integrity in all that you do. Be someone who does the right thing, even when it is not the easiest or most popular choice. These qualities will help guide you not just through this year, but through all the years ahead.

Remember, you are capable of great things! Approach this year with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a sense of purpose. I am confident that Year 9 will be a year filled with growth, learning, and fun experiences that will shape the next phase of your academic and personal journey.

Wishing you all the absolute best for the year ahead.

Starting the final stretch!

This year is an exciting one for Year 10 students as it marks the final opportunity for you to experiment with different study strategies and truly develop your time management skills in preparation for your Year 11 and 12 pathways. It is a year of transition, where the groundwork you lay now will play a crucial role in shaping your success for the years ahead.

Time flies by quickly, so I encourage you not to wait for the perfect moment to get started. Do not think you can put your studies off until tomorrow, next week, or next semester. Now is the time to build good study habits that will serve you well as you approach the more demanding years ahead in Year 11 & 12. There are also expected pre-requisites to be able to choose certain subjects in Years 11 and 12 and so Year 10 is an important academic year to allow you to select from a wide range of courses in Years 11 and 12. Focus on developing a balance between your academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and personal life. The skills you work on now will be invaluable in ensuring you are fully prepared for the challenges that Year 11 and 12 will inevitably bring.

This year, it is also important to take pride in everything you do. Take pride in yourself – how you present yourself to others, your attitude, and the effort you put into your work. First impressions matter, and how you carry yourself, both inside and outside of the classroom, can make a lasting impact. Equally important is taking pride in how you treat others. A positive attitude, kindness, and respect for those around you will contribute to a supportive and encouraging environment where everyone can thrive.

Year 10 is the year to focus on building a foundation of skills, habits, and attitudes that will not only help you excel in your studies but also guide you to become the best version of yourself. Approach this year with dedication, a growth mindset, and a sense of pride in all that you do.

I wish you all the very best for a year of growth, achievement, and success. Good luck!

Mr Brad Cotterell

Head of Year 9 and 10