Treasured Connections
Time and Space to Connect for Year 7 Students and Mother, Mother Figures – Rite of Passage Event
We are thrilled to share the success of our recent event dedicated to strengthening the community bonds and support networks for our new Year 7 students at Shore. This special evening, held last Wednesday evening, was not only a celebration but also aimed to mark this significant rite of passage for our young men as they begin their secondary school journey.
Starting Year 7 is a pivotal moment in the lives of our students. Recognising this, our event was designed to acknowledge the importance of this transition and to equip our young men with the support and guidance they need. By providing a space for open discussions and mentorship, we aim to ensure that our students feel prepared and confident as they begin their time at Shore.
One of the highlights of the evening was the involvement of our parent helpers and Senior students as group leaders. These parents and Year 11 student leaders played a vital role in facilitating group discussions and mentoring the younger students, sharing their experiences, and providing a sense of connection. Their participation not only helped the Year 7 students and parents feel more at ease but also reinforced the importance of community and peer support.
The value of being part of a strong, supportive community was a central theme throughout the evening. Through various conversations and activities, we aimed to cultivate a sense of belonging among our students and their families. The wisdom shared by older students and our parent mentor provided helpful insights, demonstrating the collective care and strength in our School Community at Shore.
The evening featured several key segments, starting with a powerful session led by a parent mentor and a Shore student in Year 11. They imparted their wisdom about the transition to secondary schooling as a parent and student, sharing personal stories and experiences that resonated deeply with our Year 7 families.
Following this, we moved into group discussion sessions where parents or student helpers facilitated conversations about the successes and challenges of beginning secondary school. These discussions offered practical advice and emotional support, helping to address any concerns and celebrate the achievements.
A particularly meaningful part of the evening was the dedicated time for mothers and mother figures to talk directly with their sons. These intimate conversations allowed them to share their hopes and expectations for Year 7, reflecting on what has gone before, reinforcing the journey ahead, and strengthening bonds.
These evenings have important connections to our various mentoring programs and camps, such as Step Up, where we have parents write letters to their sons about their school experiences and future aspirations. This initiative aims to deepen the connection between home and school, ensuring that our boys feel supported by a network that extends beyond the classroom.
Overall, the evening is an indication of the commitment to partnering with parents to support our students. By providing an environment of connection and community, we strive to help our boys feel valued and supported as they navigate their secondary school journey at Shore.
Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making a terrific event. We are very pleased to provide these opportunities to continue building a strong, supportive, and thriving Shore community.
Mr D Champion
Deputy Head Pastoral Care