Year 8

We are excited to announce that Year 8 students have embarked on the ‘Lean In Girls Leadership Program’ during their Luminary time. The program aims to empower girls to view themselves as leaders in a world that often tells them otherwise. It encourages them to become self-assured, resilient, and inclusive everyday leaders, inspiring them to lead boldly.

Statistics reveal that fewer than one in four girls aged 8 years – 17 years consider being a leader as very important, and nearly 50% believe that speaking their minds makes them unlikeable. This program is designed to equip students with the confidence and skills to be self-assured, resilient, and inclusive leaders.

The program commenced this week with students exploring the concept of leadership. They unpacked a definition of leadership to determine whether they connected with it and considered any components they might add or remove.

In addition to the leadership program, Year 8 students have also begun participating in a community initiative in partnership with Inner West Neighbour Aid. This program allows seniors to connect and lead active, social, and independent lives. Some Year 8 students have volunteered to be involved with this community group, and this week they had their first visits with some of the seniors. The students organised games and activities to engage with the seniors and spend quality time with them. The feedback from the initial sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, and the students should be very proud of their efforts.

‘Johann was really impressed with how the girls listened attentively to him rather than just chatting over the top of him. He was very moved by how genuine they were.’

‘Lisa and Patsy said the girls were so natural and sweet and they were genuinely interested in talking to them, which surprised and delighted them.’

Audrey Buck wrote this reflection about their time working with the organisation:

‘At Tuesday lunchtime, I went to Croydon Park Club with a group of girls to play some board games with the elderly citizens in our area. It was a rewarding and valuable experience in which we all laughed a lot and had some really great chats. (Not so friendly) rivalries were forged in a game of UNO and there was a high-stakes Jane Austen Bingo competition. I think it’s safe to say that everyone was sad to leave and is looking forward to next month’s visit!’

The Year 8 assessment calendar is quite packed during Week 6 to Week 8 (Monday 25 August to Friday 12 September 2025). You can find the assessment calendar on Omnia here. Students have been encouraged to prioritise their time management and preparation for their assessment tasks to prevent feeling overwhelmed during the busier periods of the term.

Key Dates for the Diary:

• Thursday 4 September 2025 – Senior School House Athletics Carnival, please go to Omnia here to submit excursion approval
• Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September 2025 – MLC School Dance Showcase

– Kate Schurch
Acting Head of Year 8