Our Year 7 students attended their Induction Service last week. Undertaking an oath to St Catherine’s, the girls committed to upholding our School Values of Integrity, Curiosity, Perseverance and Empathy. The girls were each presented with a certificate and yellow rose, symbolising friendship, warmth and care.

Below is an extract from the Induction Service Speech from Head of Year 7, Ms Kathryn Lucas.

Extract from Year 7 Induction Service Speech
Ms Kathryn Lucas
Head of Year 7

Year 7 is a momentous beginning. And, all new beginnings start, by opening a new door. So, we find ourselves here, recognising this moment, a rite of passage, the official first steps.  

During your six years of Senior School, there are bound to be many new challenges, but also a vast array of different and exciting opportunities. This new beginning is a time for personal growth, a chance to broaden friendship groups, with many moments to develop new and wide-reaching relationships within the School community. It is a time to try something new, to put your hand up in class and to step out of your comfort zone.  

Girls, you have already made me so proud to be your Head of Year. Truly, you have made a wonderful start to Senior School life. Your excitement and energy, your kindness towards others, your enthusiasm to try new things and courage to explore the unknown has not gone unnoticed by myself, your House Tutors, teachers and indeed many of the other students over the past few days.  

It is only natural to feel some apprehension around change, as a new beginning is always somewhat daunting, with lots of new things to learn. This year at St Catherine’s School, there are many avenues to foster connection and a sense of belonging – your House group, your classes, your music ensemble, sporting team and other co-curricular involvements, as well as to the wider community. 

At St Catherine’s, there is a vast and varied support system. You will find that there are many people from whom you can seek guidance and assistance. Beginning with your House Tutor, myself as your Head of Year, your subject teachers, your Year 12 mentors, and the Year 12 student leaders. Do not ever hesitate to ask, as we are all united in our wish to assist you in your transition into Year 7.  

The School has already recognised your positive energy and your eagerness to immerse yourself in the School community. As you signed up for many sports, clubs, and ensembles in the past week, I encourage you all to involve yourself in the broad range of opportunities offered. I encourage you to engage with our School wholeheartedly to experience an enriched St Catherine’s life.  

I wish you great joy and discovery for the year ahead, filled with wonderful adventures rich in learning.  

As you commence this pivotal journey, I would like to leave you with some words of advice apt for this occasion: 

“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow know what you truly want to become.” Steve Jobs

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

To enjoy a full gallery of downloadable images from the 2023 Year 7 Induction Service click here.