It was with great delight that I welcomed the Year 7s back to Term 2 this week and it was pleasing to see the excited chatter as the girls exchanged stories about their holidays. With the excitement and ‘new-ness’ of Term 1 over, this term will prove to be one for the girls to reflect upon their experience thus far and aspire to greater achievements.

The focus of the Term 2 Wellbeing program will continue to be on the transition program but will emphasise developing healthy relationships. At this stage of the girls’ development, they are in the process of forming an identity and asking the question: Who am I?

Year 7 students on camp at Phillip Island in Term 1.

An important part of identity formation comes through feelings of acceptance and belonging to a peer group as well as establishing a sense of self that is unique. It is indeed a balancing act of both fitting in and standing out. Girls end up with a sense of emptiness when they do not develop an authentic identity and become dependent on others to validate their worth and value. It is imperative therefore, for girls to take the risk of creating their own version of success and fulfilment. Success is not solely measured on secondary school achievements or specific accomplishments, but stems from a person’s character and their ability to create a meaningful and purposeful life. This involves characteristics such as integrity and compassion for others, the ability to create loving and healthy relationships, participation in an array of activities that promote growth and learning, belief in one’s own capability to handle life’s demands and an authentic identity. Speaking their own truths may not always be popular or easy for girls at this stage of their development, but it is essential to a young adolescent’s growth and development as an authentic person.

It is my hope that the Year 7 cohort will continue striving this term to achieve their best in all aspects of their lives with the School values of Empathy, Perseverance, Integrity and Curiosity underpinning all that they do.

Year 7 students on camp at Phillip Island in Term 1.