Junior School

As we reach the end of the 2025 school year and settle into the rhythm of Head Start, it’s been a great chance to pause and reflect on just how much our boys, families, and staff have achieved together. The start of Head Start always brings a mix of excitement and nervous energy, but this year in particular has shown the strength, adaptability, and spirit of our Junior School students.

Aladdin Jnr Production

I want to begin by congratulating all staff and students involved in the Aladdin Jnr Production. Last night’s opening show was, by all reports, a huge success. The boys should feel proud of their commitment over many months. Their dedication, rehearsals, and enthusiasm have all paid off. We are fortunate to have staff who work tirelessly to give our students opportunities like this, and I want to sincerely thank them for the experience they have created for our boys. I’m very much looking forward to attending Friday night’s performance myself.

Head Start in the Middle School

This year’s Head Start program marks our transition into the two-school model, with Years 7–9 now forming the Middle School. It’s been a significant shift, but one that the boys have handled with maturity and confidence. Moving into new classes, Homerooms, subjects, and teachers can feel overwhelming, especially with the quick turnaround at this time of year. Yet the boys have adapted well, settling into their new routines with enthusiasm and a willingness to engage.

Early signs across the Middle School have been very positive. Classrooms feel productive, morale is high, and students are showing genuine interest in the new year levels they’ve stepped into. A huge part of this smooth transition is thanks to our Homeroom and Classroom Teachers, who have supported the boys every step of the way. Their calm guidance, organisation, and encouragement have ensured the boys feel prepared, welcomed, and confident. Headstart is designed to set students up for success in the new year, and the boys are already making the most of the opportunity.

Year 7 Orientation Day – Tuesday, 2 December

Next Tuesday we welcome our incoming 2026 Year 7 students to the College for their Orientation Day. It feels like only yesterday that our current Year 7 boys were participating in this same experience, wide-eyed and excited for the journey ahead. We are very much looking forward to welcoming the new students into our community. A reminder to all 2025 Year 7 families (2026 Year 8 students) that this is a student-free day for the boys. As we move into 2026, we will look to our new Year 8 and Year 9 cohort to support these younger students and help them settle confidently into their new environment.

A Final Word for Our 2025 Year 7 and Year 8 Students

Congratulations to the 2025 Year 7 and Year 8 cohorts on a positive year. It has been remarkable to watch the boys grow; not just academically, but socially, emotionally, and personally. We hope that the experiences, opportunities, and lessons of this year will hold them in good stead for the years ahead. The boys now carry with them a stronger set of skills to help them navigate challenges, engage productively in their communities, and continue becoming the young men we know they can be.

To the staff of the Junior School - thank you. Your dedication, energy, and care shape the daily experiences of our boys. You are the people who guide them, set the tone, support them through the highs and lows, and model what success looks like at St Patrick’s College. The impact you’ve had on our students this year has been significant and deeply appreciated.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the final week of the term, our focus is simple. Finish the year as positively as possible. We want the boys to complete 2025 feeling proud of what they’ve accomplished and to return in 2026 excited for the opportunities ahead in their new year levels.

Thank you to our families for your ongoing support throughout the year. It has been a pleasure working with you and your sons, and we look forward to continuing that partnership in 2026. Wishing everyone an enjoyable holiday break, a safe and restful summer, and a very happy Christmas. We look forward to an exciting year ahead.