As 2023 winds down it is fitting to acknowledge the way Year 7 students have approached their first year of high school. This year has been busy with lots of major changes for all the students to navigate. Throughout the year there have been some amazing highlights both academically and outside the classroom. I congratulate all students on their achievements this year.

There is still a busy few weeks to go before the students can take a well earned break. This week half of the geography classes attended the excursion to Kiama. The other half had their excursion postponed due the the weather and will go on to Kiama next Tuesday 5 December. Thank you to the HSIE staff for providing our Yr 7 students with opportunities for hands-on learning.  

Recently, all Year 7 visited the Shoalhaven Zoo to learn more about animals and their habitats, while the Religious Education classes have been visiting St Michael’s Church to learn more about Catholic culture and the church building. 

Student Reflections on Excursions:

Brandon Exton “Saint Michael’s visit was interesting as I didn't go to this school in primary. I enjoyed learning more about our religion and culture”

Chloe Farrugia “The zoo excursion was heaps of fun because we got to see all the animals and learn about the different areas they live in and their habitats”

Milla Cooper “We got to learn about the past and what the church was made from and how it gives us a view of their culture”

Logan Humphries “We had a fantastic time exploring different sections of the Shoalhaven Zoo. The animal sightings were so cool and the highlight was undoubtedly seeing the kids getting peed on by the tiger – it was so funny.”

Year 7 rock band performed at the Creative Arts assembly and again at the Creative Arts Evening. The students were simply amazing. A big thank you to these students: Leila Ferreira, Madison McGee, Maia Donnici, Evie Smart and Henry Moller. Two year 7 students were also involved in the Vocal Group performance, Isabel Gonzaga and Leila Ferreira - it is fantastic to see our Yr 7 students becoming involved in the arts. 

Peer Support is also finishing and there will be an opportunity for Year 7 students to thank the Year 10 Peers Support students for their help and guidance over the past year with an end of year party in the coming weeks. Year 10 are to be commended for their dedication to the support of Year 7 throughout the year. 

Don’t forget to bring in your donations for the Vinnies Christmas Appeal. This is a very important event for St John’s in our school calendar as we come together as a community to give to those in our Shoalhaven community that are doing it tough. Check with your PALS teacher for what items to bring in for your baskets. Let’s make someone’s Christmas special this year.

Thank you to all the parents and carers for your support in 2023 and we look forward to what 2024 brings.

'Let your light shine!'

Acting Year 7 Coordinator