Year 9

Happy New Year and Welcome Back

I am delighted to be continuing with this cohort in 2026 and to support the students as they progress further into their secondary schooling and begin their journey towards becoming senior students.

There has been a positive and energetic atmosphere around the School this week, with many students enjoying the opportunity to reconnect with friends and teachers. However, we recognise that returning to school can be challenging for some students. If your daughter is experiencing anxiety or concerns about the start of the year, please be assured that a range of supports are available. I encourage you to contact me via email here so we can address any concerns early and work collaboratively to ensure all Year 9 students feel comfortable, confident, and supported in their school life.

This year, Year 9 students commence their elective subjects – an important milestone that allows them greater agency and choice in their learning. Given the wide range of electives on offer, students may find themselves in classes without all of their close friends. We have been encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones, build new connections, and engage positively with new classmates and teachers. Students will remain in their chosen electives for the first four weeks, allowing sufficient time to experience the subject content. In Weeks 5 and 6 of the term, students will have the opportunity to request a change of elective, subject to timetable availability.

The Luminary System continues to play an important role in student wellbeing, providing each student with an additional trusted adult within the School who can offer guidance and support. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your daughter’s school experience, you are welcome to contact her Luminary or myself. Over the coming weeks, each Luminary will be in touch to introduce themselves and conduct an early check-in, ensuring your daughter has made a positive start to the year.

The Luminaries for each group are:

A reminder that House Chapel Services will be held throughout the term (see dates below). These are compulsory school events, and all students are expected to attend. If your daughter is unable to attend her scheduled House Chapel Service due to prior commitments, we ask that a parent communicates this by emailing both the Head of House and myself. All absences must be explained, and students who are unable to attend their House Service will be required to attend a Chapel Service for another House.

I look forward to working closely with you throughout 2026 and supporting our Year 9 students as they continue to grow and thrive.

Key Dates

• Monday 2 February 2026 – School Photo Day, please read more by clicking here.
• Wednesday 4 February 2026  – Sibling Photo Day
• Friday 6 February 2026 – Parent Welcome Evening
• Monday 9 February 2026  – Year 9 Parent Information Evening
• Sunday 15 February 2026 – Leawarra and Mooramoora House Chapel Services
• Sunday 22 February 2026 – Abbeythorpe and Booralee House Chapel Services
• Sunday 15 March 2026 – Wade and Whitley House Chapel Services
• Sunday 22 March 2026 – Churunga and Lester House Chapel Services
• Sunday 29 March 2026 – Sutton and Prescott House Chapel Services

– Kate Schurch
Head of Year 9