Year 8
Mr Stephen McNamara
Leader of Wellbeing – Year 8
Compassion, Challenges and Achievement
Term 1 was an exceptionally busy and rewarding start to the year for the Year 8 cohort. The group theme, “Brothers to All,” was introduced and immediately embraced, setting a strong foundation for the standards and expectations of 2026.
As students entered the second part of Stage Four, their first Assessment Tasks arrived quickly, yet they approached them with confidence and achieved pleasing early results. Classes settled smoothly into productive routines and it was particular joy to watch the interaction the Year 8 students engage with their ‘sensei,’ Ms Doucet, as they master the first steps in a new language, Japanese.
Beyond the classroom, Year 8 threw themselves into the full range of co-curricular activities, always with the enthusiasm, commitment and energy which is the hallmark of the Year 8 2026 group.
- Public Speaking: Henson Tang and Yashaar Rampersad progressed to the semi finals.
- Swimming: Jean Lim qualified for the Sydney Catholic Schools event in both freestyle and relay.
- Sport: The Sydney Catholic Schools Touch Football, Basketball and European Handball squads all qualified for the Conference finals, an impressive feat in itself.
Service to others remained a defining feature of the cohort, Students led the Marist College Eastwood Vinnies Conference with maturity and compassion, running meetings, raising money and making sandwiches for the Vinnies Van.
Two major events also shaped the term. The first was the College Open Day, where Year 8 impressed visitors with their warm hospitality and their capable management of the Open Day Café. The second was the launch of Project Compassion, embraced wholeheartedly by the cohort and driven by the twelve Homeroom Leaders. Their creative fundraising, ranging from EPL themed competitions to St Patrick’s Day green jelly treats and QR code dollar matching, made a significant contribution to the College total.
A particularly joyful moment for the year group was the visit from Adeesha Herath, who joined us for a special morning tea and shared the remarkable progress he has made in his recovery from last year’s stroke. His presence was a source of great happiness, especially for his close friends.
Throughout the term, Year 8 demonstrated deep reverence and respect during the Opening College Mass, Ash Wednesday Liturgy, Year 8 Mass and the Holy Thursday Easter Liturgy, clear evidence of their commitment to the values at the heart of Marist College Eastwood.
Best wishes and blessings to all of your families for the Easter Season!