Year 8 is a tremendously affirming year in which students solidify meaningful connections, friendships, settle more deeply into the rhythms of school routines, and engage with maturity in the many co-curricular offerings that are available at St Catherine’s.

It is an opportunity to extend skills and refine study routines that will benefit students well into their later senior years at School. A sense of pride and belonging is evident with our Year 8s being St Catherine’s students. It is clear our Year 8 students have more confidence, a greater sense of agency, and a well utilised and encouraged student voice.

This year students have received career guidance and support around Year 9 subject selections. Their agency and voice have been nurtured in this process and students have begun the process of matching their skills and strengths with career paths.

Other meaningful activities this year included:

• Year 8 Camp to Uluru
• Middle Years Play – Breaking the Rules
• Applying for the Exchange Program in Year 9
• Preparation for the student Leadership Diploma beginning in Year 9

The girls also participated in many wellbeing initiatives such as:

• The Kindness Jar initiative
• Workshops on mindfulness, healthy mindsets, digital literacy, and how to manage cyberbullies
• The Toolbox Workshop on navigating thinking traps

There is a confidence and ease in our Year 8 students that has been a joy to witness. There is a genuine sense of gratitude for an enjoyable year and much anticipation for the exciting opportunities Year 9 will bring.

Student highlights from 2024:

“One of my highlights is our Year 8 Camp. We went to Central Australia. It was an amazing experience and taught me more independence. Music Camp this year was amazing, the party was the most spectacular part of the evening, where everyone jumped around and sang with friends. Next year I am looking forward to encountering new subjects that I haven’t tried before and having the opportunity to do exchanges.” Gabriella Vincenzini.

“My highlights this year have been the Year 8 Camp as I was able to make new friends. I also enjoyed catching up with all my friends and being able to have the opportunity to think about what Exchange I could do. I am looking forward to Wellbeing Day and House Arts.” Brielle Lee

“A highlight of this year so far has been going to Central Australia on Year 8 Camp. It was an insightful experience, and I was able to make new friends and learn new things. I am looking forward to House Arts as I really enjoyed it last year.” Nadia Chu

“A highlight of this year has been going on Year 8 Camp. Throughout this trip, I made some new friends and strengthened existing bonds. Going to Central Australia and seeing the many plentiful views there were has let me develop a new insight into the world, of peace and the beauty of nature.” Jessie Xing

“My Highlight of this year so far has been Uluru Camp. I loved the hikes and getting out of my comfort zone as hiking isn’t something I would normally do. I also loved going for my Exchange interview as it forced me to look into the future which made me realise that I am really looking forward to next year. I am also looking forward to House Arts as it is my favourite part of the year.” Coco Lutz

“The Central Australia Camp was undoubtedly my highlight of the year, offering an unforgettable blend of adventurous and educational experiences. The vast crimson landscapes of the outback were breathtaking, but what made the Camp truly special was learning about the Indigenous culture. What stood out even more were the strong friendships and memories I formed during the Camp, and those bonds have only grown stronger since. House Arts is something I am looking forward to because it sounds like a lot of fun and is something I have never done before.” Rebecca Wibowo

“My highlight of Year 8 was going on Camp to Uluru. It was spectacular and I enjoyed every bit of it. I also loved the sports carnivals like Cross Country and Athletics.” Charlotte Roe

“My highlight of Year 8 was coming to St Catherine’s and experiencing all the amazing aspects of the School. I am looking forward to the new subjects that I can do next year and trying something that I haven’t done before.” Cerie Jen

“One of my highlights this year was the Uluru Camp. It was a fun and interesting experience to explore a different place. I’m looking forward to taking part in House Arts.” Simone Yazbek

“My Year 8 highlights include the Uluru Camp, where I shared a tent with Jess K and had fun with my friends, especially at the dunk tank. I also enjoyed choosing my subjects, which made me excited for the year ahead. These moments made Year 8 really special.” Lila Read