Middle School Update

Term 3 in the Middle School has been abuzz with participation in a wide range of enriching activities. Students have continued to embrace opportunities with enthusiasm and open minds, trying new things and taking the chance to learn more about themselves and others in the process. The ways in which their thoughtful and adventurous spirit has helped to build our community have been inspiring to see and speak loudly to the embodiment of our school theme: ‘Listen in; lean in … as the way opens.’

In August, the Intermediate Band travelled to Melbourne to participate in the Victorian School Musical Festival, while September saw State victories for our Middle School teams in both the Mathematical Association of Tasmania Relays and the Tournament of Minds competition. Four groups of talented Middle School musicians competed in our School Battle of the Bands competition, and our Intermediate Band also had the opportunity to play alongside the visiting West Texas A&M University in a memorable wind and brass concert.

The key focus for Year 7 this term was the environment. In Connections, students completed a Household Project at home that aimed to improve an aspect of the environment, and went on a series of Quests, each with a focus on sustainability in different contexts. This tied into both English and Humanities. In Humanities, we studied Water in the World, investigating water scarcity and its impacts, and hydrological hazards. In English, we read the novel Alex by Rosanne Hawke, which explored the life of a family living through drought in the Flinders Ranges and its repercussions on the wider community.

Knights, peasants, monks and medieval royalty have been seen in the Middle School this term as Year 8 students combined their critical analysis of reality TV with the study of Medieval History, resulting in the creation of a number of Medieval reality TV shows. A study of the English Peasants’ Revolt (1381) led to a comparison with other rebellions and revolutions in Connections, and an examination of the role of Quakers as ‘quiet revolutionaries’ through non-violent protest.

Year 8 students have worked through the multifaceted Linear Functions unit in Mathematics and have started examining all aspects of Measurement. In Connections, students have designed and constructed zoo animals using recycled materials, calculating the volume of each body part throughout the process. They have also investigated the transformation of shapes and designed tessellated patterns. The study of geology in Science, along with a new familiarity with tessellations, gave the Outdoor Education coasteering trip to the Tessellated Pavement new meaning for the Year 8 students.

Students have started their transition to the Senior School with subject selections, a tour of the Senior School and information about what to expect as they move into Year 9. As students consider future pathways, they have created their own unique Identity Map, a landscape that reflects each student as a person and their own journey (past, present and future). They will introduce themselves to their 2027 Tutors through these visual profiles.

Our wellbeing focus this term has included National Bullying No Way Week through our Social Emotional Learning program, highlighting the importance of upstanding in building a strong and safe community. This was complemented by R U OK? Day, focusing on the value of ‘checking in’ with friends. The SEL program has also foregrounded the ‘GREAT DREAM’ acronym, where each letter represents one of ten things we can do to support our wellbeing.

This term, the Student Voice Council had the opportunity to tour and complete service at the Hobart City Mission’s Safe Sleep Space. The shelter provides 35 emergency beds for people experiencing homelessness in Hobart. The students learned about the causes and effects of homelessness in our community, and how we can work together to overcome the crisis.

“Before going to the homeless shelter, I had stereotypes make up my view of the homeless, but after talking to the staff of the shelter, I completely understood how homeless people might have gotten into the situation that they were in.” Ben M (Year 8), Mather House Leader

“For many people this is a safe refuge, and visiting this space has helped me realise how truly grateful I am for having a house and my own room, plus constant access to food and love of my family.” Pippa L (Year 7), Walker Key Class Representative

This year, we completed some service for the organisation on site, making pre-made toasties for the visitors to enjoy that evening. After learning that the shelter does not have enough facilities to freeze donated food, the students decided that they would like to raise funds to purchase a chest freezer for the organisation and fill it with donated food.

And finally, the annual House Pantomime was held at the end of the term, and what a huge success it was! Each House went head-to-head in entertaining and colourful performances, combining the storylines of popular Pixar films with a hilarious Friends’ School twist. Supported by our generous staff, students brought their tales to life with great energy, enthusiasm and House Spirit. Mather was successful on the evening, but we congratulate all students and staff for their wonderful participation. Thank you also to our energetic audience, whose generous donations have helped contribute towards our fundraising efforts for the Hobart City Mission.

John Hoggart - Acting Head of Middle School (Years 7 & 8)