Year 9 & 10

Year 9 latest

Recently our Year 9 students had the chance to hear from a guest speaker who spoke openly about peer pressure and bullying. He wasn’t polished or scripted—he was energetic, raw, and very real. What made his talk so powerful was that it came from lived experience, not a textbook. You could see the way the room shifted as students began to really tune in; his story struck a chord.

My hope is that what he shared doesn’t just fade as “another talk,” but instead stays with our Year 9s as they navigate daily life. At this age, the little things—an offhand comment, a joke at someone’s expense, a glance—can quickly grow bigger than intended. Respecting one another, and taking the time to truly listen, makes all the difference in keeping our community positive and supportive.

What I took away, and what I hope our students did too, is that the choices we make in the small moments often define who we are. It’s easy to get swept up in peer pressure or group dynamics, but it’s far more powerful to be the person who stands for kindness, empathy, and respect. Those qualities might not always be loud, but they’re the ones that matter most.

Year 10 latest

What a superb camp! Our Year 10 students are now back home from time at Forest Edge Recreational Centre, and it is safe to say it was an experience they won’t forget. From start to finish, the students showed just how amazing they can be—supportive of one another, willing to try new things, and ready to step outside their comfort zones.

The theme of “expanding your paradigm” really came to life. Whether it was tackling challenging activities, working together in teams, or simply embracing the outdoors, so many students pushed themselves further than they thought they could. Even with the rainy weather, the group’s enthusiasm never wavered, and it only added to the sense of adventure that made this camp so memorable.

What made it even more special was the way the group approached every opportunity with respect, positivity, and a sense of fun. They made the most of every moment, and that energy set the tone for the whole camp.

A huge thank you goes to Ms Yoxall for her organisation and hard work in making the camp possible, and to the staff who joined us and helped run the activities. Forest Edge gave us more than just a few days away—it gave our Year 10s the chance to grow, connect, and create memories that will stay with them for years to come.

Mr Brad Cotterell 

Head of Year 9 and 10