Acting Head of Student Welfare 

Year 10 Mid-Year Exams 

Mid-Year Exams are well underway for our Year 10 students. Our previous Welfare Assembly focussed on setting boys up for success for this experience. There are many people who feel nervous about sitting examinations. It is a common response and some nervousness is good when preparing for exams as it is a normal reaction pushing you out of your comfort zone. Some nervousness is good when it’s short term (a few days or weeks, but subsides after exams), if you are motivated/distracted by other things, feel fatigued (but only until exams are completed), feel butterflies or shaky right before an exam. 

However, it’s too much when the shakiness and nervousness doesn't go away, students are unable to sleep properly, feel nauseous, overwhelmed, panicked or constantly worried. I provided students with several resources to help them manage such feelings and successfully guide them through the examination period. They can also find links to these in the Mid-Year Exam Study Guide.

One thing that will contribute to students feeling overwhelmed is if they are unprepared. I shared with students an after-school-hours planner to schedule their exam study and revision, including tips on how to stay focused and healthy physically and mentally. As students are traveling home after each exam it’s important they optimise this time to prepare for the following exams. 

Setting themselves up with a dedicated study space that is quiet and free from distraction is important. A good tip is to put mobile phones and other electronic devices in a separate room, turn them off or, turn off notifications to prevent losing focus and becoming distracted. It’s also important to schedule study breaks, eat well, stay hydrated, do some form of movement or exercise and try to get 8 hours of sleep. 

There are many people at the College to support our Year 10s through this experience. If they have any questions, are unsure of anything or are feeling worried about something I encourage them to reach out and ask. Knowing the answer will help them to feel more at ease with the process. 

I wish all our Year 10 students best of luck for the remainder of their exams.

Pride in Personal Appearance 

We encourage our young men at St Virgil's to take pride in their appearance. While in College uniform, they represent what it means to be a Virgilian proudly. However, we know at times they will need a gentle reminder of this.

Uniform and Jewelry

As the weather becomes cooler some non-uniform items have become noticeable as boys arrive to school. Students are reminded to keep themselves warm with school uniform items only such as the grey jumper, long sleeve shirt and trousers. Thermals under shirts are recommended. Similarly jewelry (other than a watch) should not be worn. 

Facial Hair

Students are expected to be clean-shaven. With mask wearing some students have become complacent with this. I have requested Pastoral Care Teachers have a conversation with any students who may need a reminder of this expectation. Parental support with ensuring the boys are representing themselves and the College appropriately is greatly appreciated.