From the Middle School
From the Head of Middle School Jenny O’Donnell
This week in Middle School we had a visit from Senior Constable Lynda Hart who works with Hornsby Police. She spoke to both Year 7 and 8 students about a number of topics relevant to their safety. Below is a reflection from Year 7 Communications Leaders: Sahana Shasidharan and Megan Ow.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Middle School cohort had the opportunity to engage in an important discussion about social media, focusing on how to prevent stressful situations online and what to do if they occur. We were fortunate to welcome a special guest, Senior Constable Lynda Hart, who delivered an impactful presentation on topics such as sextortion, blackmail, cyberbullying, exploitation and online harassment. In the process of her talk, we learned practical steps to take in these situations and identified the right people to turn to when something goes wrong online. Senior Constable Hart also reminded us that once something is shared online, it remains there permanently and encouraged us to think carefully before posting.
She introduced us to the GRANDMA strategy, which highlights the importance of considering whether a post is appropriate before sharing it with others. We also saw situations virtually, as we watched videos on these scenarios and how it can make a big impact with just one click of a button. These videos showed that with one post, social media will always find a way to bring it back, making it an important thing to think about what you’re going to post and what you do in social media.
We are thankful to Senior Constable Hart for sharing her time and knowledge, and for equipping our students with strategies to stay safe and make positive choices online.
Sahana Shasidharan (Year 7) & Megan Ow (Year 7)
Our Middle School collaborative weaving project is coming along very nicely. The girls involved are excited to now be at the stage where they can see what the finished product will look like. Working throughout the Term with the representatives from Speaking in Colour, has provided us all with an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of First Nations traditions. Below are some updated images to share.
Next week, Year 8 will be heading off to the Colo River for their 5-day Outdoor Education experience. Thank you to all the staff who have invested so much time to ensure the girls are well placed to get the most out of the opportunity. We will be meeting up at Kelso at 8.15am on Monday morning. If there are any late medical updates to share, please sent this directly to Somerset for inclusion.
Malalai Karimi of Year 8 was invited to speak at an event in Newcastle last weekend to share her passion for Afghanistan, women’s rights and the importance of freedom of choice. Below is an extract from a poem she shared as part of her presentation. Well done, Malalai.
“Never Comes”
The hope never comes, the scent of freedom, the smell of happiness, never comes.
Two hundred years in a war, I am exhausted from this world. Why does peace never come?
Why can’t we feel that freedom? Why us?
We have become selfish, greedy. We have forgotten the real us.
In the mountains of Panjshir, A voice raised, strong, unbreakable and fearless.
He guides us, teaches us: Fight for your rights, that right is not for giving.
Fight for hope, for the hope that will come.
Unity is the key we lost. Trust is the chain we broke.
When hands join, hearts open, the scent of freedom will finally come.
No more strangers over our land, No more turning against each other. Only us, standing side by side. Unbreakable, unbowed, waiting for the hope to come.
Message from Year 8 Coordinators
Join us for a delightful evening of connection and conversation at our Year 8 Group Mothers’ Drinks Party!
Date: Thursday, 18 September 2025
Time: 7.00 pm
Venue: Greengate Hotel, Killara
The Year 8 girls will be at Colo River next week. This is a wonderful opportunity to catch up with fellow mothers, share stories and build our community spirit.
We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of fun and friendship!
Jenny O’Donnell
Head of Middle School