The speed with which Year 11 students have moved through this year has been breathtaking. Breathtaking in the amount of growth achieved, breathtaking in a newly found sense of purpose to excel and finally, breathtaking in terms of the excitement and spirit of celebration that students have adopted to their learning and their relationships. 

Our wonderful Year 11 students approached 2024 with a positive curiosity to try new experiences. This saw students engaging in Music, the Arts, Sports, and Community Service initiatives. This year, getting involved has been a core mantra, as has the commitment to inclusivity. 

The Year 11 Formal at Kooyong in Term 2 was a great night of joy and celebration. Everyone who attended can attest to the warm atmosphere and sense of respectful community that was palpable and which led to a commendation from the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, who stated that this was the most respectful group of young people they have ever hosted. 

Preparing for House Arts has been a highlight for our Year 11s. They have taken the creative mantel offered by Mr James Brown and developed four beautiful performances. It has been pure delight to see these amazing young people working together collaboratively. Each House has made an idea come to life. I can assure you that Gene Wilder’s words in his role of Willy Wonka “Come with me and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination” are manifested in the work and creative prowess of our dear Year 11 students. 

While it is inevitable that time passes and at times with lightning speed, the energy and sheer dynamic force of youth is truly a magical thing.We encourage each Year 11 student to hold on to the magic and to continue growing, as we shift our gaze towards 2025, their final year of secondary education, and the many adventures ahead.