Year 9 news
Year 9’s have had a busy few weeks, making the most of all the opportunities afforded to them at Shelford.
The Victorian Young Leaders: Global Youth Forum
On 1 June, a voluntary group of 16 students participated in the Victorian Young Leaders: Global Youth Forum. This is a two -day virtual program, run by the University of Melbourne and the Asia Education Foundation. The interactive program is designed to deepen students’ understanding of what it means to be a global citizen. Students interact with peers from across Australia and Asia-Pacific exploring different global perspectives and apply their knowledge and skills to discuss real world situations building their capabilities to be active and informed global citizens.
I am Mindful
On Thursday 2 June Stephanie Silver introduced her amazing ‘I am Mindful’ Program. We are piloting I am Mindful as part of the Year 9 Wellbeing program, as a way of creating students that can self-manage their mental health. Students were given a box with a toolkit and coping planning resources. I am Mindful work with schools across Australia teaching students and their support systems how to manage tough times in a proactive, skilful and healthy way. Post-lockdown, Shelford feels it is important students are able to build resilience and coping skills, that they have missed over the past two years. Parents and guardians are encouraged to read more on the program here and speak with their Year 9 child about how they can incorporate this fantastic toolkit into their everyday lives.
Policies, parties and elections
As part of the Year 9 Humanities curriculum, students have commenced their study of Civics and Citizenship. Coinciding with the recent Federal election, students were put into groups and researched political parties, their leaders and party policies. An important part of education is creating knowledge to be an informed citizen. I’m proud to say that our Year 9’s have a solid understanding of Australia’s electoral process and will be most informed, when they one day have the chance to vote.
Budding engineers
A big congratulations to Lauren F and Freya A of 9A who have been accepted into the Girls Engineering and IT program held at Melbourne University during the July holidays. Only 30 female students were selected for this program across Victoria. This a fantastic achievement for both girls.
Monique Sheehy
Year 9 Coordinator