The overarching theme for Wellbeing in Year 11 is ‘weAccomplish’. This is at the forefront of our efforts to support our students in their journey towards accomplishing their goals. We recognise the importance of equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate the challenges they may encounter.  

One area of focus is leadership development. We strive to provide our students with the tools and guidance to meet and exceed leadership expectations. By fostering their leadership skills, we empower them to take on responsibilities, including House Arts Portfolios and the Student Representative Council.  

Throughout Semester 1 there has also been a strong emphasis on supporting students through the rigors of VCE, as this academic pathway can at times be demanding. Through comprehensive support systems, including programs undertaken in the girls’ Academic Advisory and Wellbeing sessions we have helped our students develop the resources and strategies needed to manage their workload effectively, while maintaining their overall wellbeing.  

Building relationships is a key component of a fulfilling and supportive environment. Our Wellbeing Program has incorporated sessions to encourage students to foster positive connections with their peers, teachers, and the broader community. These relationships provide a strong support network and create opportunities for personal growth and collaboration. 

Throughout Semester 1, I have witnessed our Year 11 students embrace opportunities and exceed expectations. Their determination and enthusiasm has been truly inspiring and I am confident in their ability to continue their personal and academic growth.  

I take this opportunity to share some stories and reflections from two of our Year 11 students who have been actively engaged in programs or are about to embark on a new experience beyond the Heyington Gates. 

Monash Scholars Program – Olivia Hargrave 

“As a Year 11 student I’ve commenced my second year in the Monash Scholars Program. I’m thrilled to be a part of this rewarding journey. We kicked off the year with a study skills webinar, before attending campus for a team building event where we covered networking and effective communication. I love the academic rigour of the environment. It’s interesting to be surrounded by so many motivated people with such a varied interest base. I’m looking forward to the upcoming Knowledge Summit next term, where we’ll take an interdisciplinary approach to discuss the pressing topic of technology. Being a Monash Scholar is genuinely an enriching experience that has helped fuel my enthusiasm for learning, academics, and future growth. It has been instrumental in building my social network with other like-minded/high achieving students.” 

Melbourne Theatre Ambassador Program – Lilla Barrington

“At the start of this year, amongst 14 other Year 11s across Victoria, I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to be selected as a Melbourne Theatre Ambassador. The Program entails meeting roughly 10 times across the year, to discuss and view a Melbourne Theatre Company production. We also get the chance to meet some of the people who are involved in the productions, such as actors, directors, costume designers etc. So far, it has been such an enjoyable experience, especially getting to meet new people who share the same passion for the performing arts as I do.” 

Community Youth Leadership – Rhea Werner

“I’ve been so fortunate to have amazing support from our St Catherine’s community to undertake projects beyond the Heyington Gates, to drive tangible change in our community.  

I am currently leading the Youth Advisory Council for the Embrace Collective Youth Initiative – the first, nationwide body image non-profit.  

This year, I have written an eating disorder education module in collaboration with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Columbia Valegos College of Physicians, which has been used by Swimming NSW and VicHealth, and presented at the United Nations ECOSOC Youth Forum, cumulatively impacting over 60,000 young people.  

We were also fortunate to be able to host the world’s first body image leadership camp for over 100 youth from all across Australia in March, in collaboration with the 2023 Australian of the Year, Taryn Brumfitt.  

I’ve also been so fortunate to be the youngest postal campaign leader for the Voice to Parliament Campaign, distributing over 5,000 leaflets to educate Kooyong and Higgins residents about the importance of voting ‘Yes’ to enshrine a constitutional referendum for a First Nations Voice to Parliament.  

As a blue-ribbon community, I truly think the change we have been able to drive in School, but also in our community, is incredible. I hope to inspire younger girls to continue to give back as St Cath’s students.”