Year Eight is a time for transition, learning the important life skill of how to move from the known to the unknown. Many girls feel that they are leaving the security of a Primary school environment that they have known for over seven years into the hustle and bustle of a new and bigger Secondary school. Some girls are leaving home for extended periods of time to become Boarders. At the same time their bodies are changing, friends become more important and girls want to become more and more independent. They are concerned about “getting lost”, “needing to make new friends” and “the work getting harder”.

Following a period of induction activities, including a camp early in Term 1 of Year 8, middle schooling strategies are used. Students have two main teachers for the subjects of Society & Environment, English, and Science & Mathematics, as this ensures that the teacher-student relationship develops quickly, creating a perfect environment in which students can learn. Most Year 8 classes are in a limited number of neighbouring rooms. Our girls settle in quickly, ready to learn from many new learning opportunities offered by specialist facilities.

For the first time in 2006, aspects of the International Baccalaureate will be trialled. The will allow an international perspective to be introduced across learning areas, raising standards further.

As an application of what is being discussed during Religious Education classes students are given the opportunity to participate in “Mercy in Action”, an innovative program that introduces students to situations and social issues that will expand their knowledge and give them practical ways to learn about, and contribute to their local and global community.

Year 8 and 9 students have the opportunity to attend two socials during the year. One is a combined Middle School event, while the other is year group based. Both functions are held with our brother school, Mazenod College.