Year 9

The discourse amongst students in recent days has been dominated by the impending deadline for subject selection. I am sure many conversations at home have revolved around the plethora of options available and which subjects best align with students’ interests and aspirations. As we progress toward seniority in school, students are afforded much greater agency over their educational pathway, and each step along that journey lays foundations for future success. My view, for what it is worth, is that Year 10 is a ripe opportunity to explore options and challenge oneself before the intensity and stakes of Stage 6 begin to take priority.

Continuing on that theme, we have encouraged students to make the most of the expertise around them. Their teachers invariably love discussing subject choices and can offer valuable insight into the realities of different courses. I should confess my own professional biases toward the other half of my role (have you considered Drama…?), and of course Ms Stafford is always happy to discuss Year 10 PAS with any student who thinks that might be up their alley.

In a similar vein, today marked R U OK? Day at school, and we have been encouraging students to engage in meaningful conversations with those around them. The conceptualisation of R U OK? has evolved over the years, with increasing emphasis on what happens after the question is asked. It serves as a useful reminder that there is often far more going on beneath the surface than we realise, and that simply reaching out and spending time in genuine conversation can make a significant difference. A special thanks goes to Ms Powers and the SRC team for putting in such a great effort to make the day a powerful and meaningful event.

Finally, we wish the 14 Year 9 students attending the ISA Athletics Carnival next week all the very best in their events. Representing the school at this level is no small achievement and reflects a great deal of commitment, training and perseverance. Whether competing for podium finishes or personal bests, they have already done the cohort proud, and we look forward to hearing how they fare.