Wellbeing - Middle School

Middle School Camp Experiences

For many students, school camp is the highlight of the year. It’s a chance to learn and engage away from the walls of the classroom and in activities outside of the mainstream curriculum. Being away from home and families can also be a challenging time for students (and parents/carers). However, attending camp is an important milestone for our students here at St Patrick’s and the benefits are overwhelmingly positive.

Time away from home allows students to make decisions on their own, away from, at times, the dependence of their parents/carers.

Allows the deepening of current friendships and the forming of new ones.
Allows students to develop their leadership and team-building skills.
Delve outside of their comfort zone and exposure to activities that may become an interest to them outside of camp.
Away from screens and devices, so they can be active and engaged in hands-on activities.

As such, Year 5 will be heading to Katoomba Christian Convention Centre in Week 5 of Term 1 between Tuesday 27 February to Thursday 29 February. Later in the Term during Week 8, Year 6 will be travelling to Canberra between Monday 18 March and Wednesday 30 March. And finally, Year 7 will be travelling to Somerset Outdoor Learning Centre, Colo River during Week 3 of Term 4, between Monday 28 October and returning Thursday 31 October.

 The development of these skills and characteristics are so critical in preparing students for future employment. Close to two-thirds of all jobs will be people-skill intensive by 2030, and that is so pertinent to our current Middle School students. We hope that all boys enjoy their upcoming camp experience and look forward to being able to share many stories of adventure, excitement, personal growth and learning with parents/carer upon their return. More information from the respective Year Coordinator will follow as the camp experiences approach.

Alex Sinadinos

Director of Middle School

Year 7 - Update

Year 7 have hit the ground running in 2024, starting off with a successful Orientation Day, Opening liturgy and the first week of classes. The students have adapted well through the transition from Year 6 to Year 7 and are starting to settle into the high school routine.

Expectations have been set high for the cohort and so far, they are meeting the mark, showing great respect throughout school events such as Opening School Mass and the High Achievers ceremony. There has also been encouraging feedback from classroom teachers regarding engagement in lesson. We hope this work ethic and attitude keeps up throughout their time in the Middle and Senior school allowing them to grow into successful students.

The pastoral focus of our year is to grow as ‘Young Men of Heart’ showcasing Honesty, Respect and Trust as well as Honour, Resilience and Teamwork. We will work with your sons throughout the year to continue to develop these attributes as they grow into young men.

Please see a short reflection below from the Year 7 Ambassadors Camilio Chelala, Anthony D’Arrigo, William Gotsis and Jack Ronzini regarding the Year 7 Orientation Day.

What I have enjoyed about Year 7 was coming to school seeing my mates and it brought me a sense of joy and belonging. It also made me feel a sense of responsibility. Having the tours across the school was great, as I got to know the buildings a little better, such as the Scientia. This gave me the confidence to find my classes quickly. Our homeroom teachers were very welcoming especially to the new boys, and this helped us build our confidence that bit further. The information given was vital for our understanding of how middle school works. Overall, the beginning of year seven was fun and enjoyable.

I take this opportunity to also thank all parents/carers for attending the Parent Information Evening and Welcome Barbeque. It was a great night of community with a special excited atmosphere.

Jordan Bottalico

Year 7 Coordinator