Year 8

Week 2 has been a particularly busy period for Year 8, with students undertaking a range of assessments. By the conclusion of Week 3, all formal assessments for Semester 2 will have been completed. However, as I communicated to Year 8 at the beginning of the term, learning is an ongoing process that continues throughout the entire term. Even after the completion of formal assessments, students will remain actively engaged in their classes, and it is important that they maintain their focus to ensure they are developing the essential skills required for Stage 5.

This week also provided Year 8 students with the opportunity to nominate themselves for the position of Middle Years Leader for Year 9. Those who chose to nominate were invited to deliver a speech to their respective House groups, outlining their personal qualities and motivations for seeking a leadership role. I am extremely proud of all the students who demonstrated the courage to put themselves forward and to speak in front of their peers. While not every student can be selected as a leader, the willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone and participate in this process is a true demonstration of leadership qualities.

As part of our Academic Care Program, Year 8 students participated in an engaging session led by Marianna Carlino, Director of eLearning. The focus was on harnessing Artificial Intelligence as a valuable learning tool. Students learned practical strategies for interpreting assessment notifications and discovered how to craft effective prompts to maximise the benefits of AI support in their studies. This session aimed to empower students with skills that will help them approach their learning with greater confidence and independence.

– Kate Schurch
Acting Head of Year 8