Year 7 has begun their transition into high school with great energy, enthusiasm and, understandably, some nerves. I want to thank all of the students and families of our Year 7 students for making these first few days as smooth as possible.

The first few weeks will present many new questions and potentially some confusion as Year 7 begin to navigate and adjust to the fast-paced nature of high school. Rest assured, our awesome staff and students here at St John’s will attempt to alleviate any trepidation and assist Year 7 on their journey to the best of their abilities.

Our next big event is Year 7 Camp in Week 5, on Wednesday 25 to Friday 27 February. Initial discussions about equipment lists and tent groupings are beginning next week, with official selections to take place on Wednesday during long PALS. The students have shown great interest and enthusiasm in preliminary discussions about the planning process, and seem to be very excited; fully embracing the spirit of Year 7 Camp. If there are any issues or problems related to Camp please contact the school as soon as possible.

Year 7 will also be participating in the NSW School Vaccination Program on Monday 10 February. Vaccination Cards were distributed last week and need to be returned to the school office. If you do not wish for your child to engage in the vaccination program we ask for return of the completed card noting "Permission not provided".

Year 7 recently participated in the Catholic Culture day, striving to live out our Year group motto, ‘God’s gift to you is your life. What you become is your gift to God’. They explored many aspects of what it means to be a student at a catholic school and how to implement these values in their everyday actions.
Our values will guide us to be active and valuable members of the St John’s community. The teachers at St John’s are keeping an eye out for these particular students, who are living out our year group motto and catholic teachings, nominating individuals for a ‘GIFT’ (Growing in Faith Together) award. These GIFT awards will be presented during our Monday morning briefings to acknowledge the wonderful work the individuals within our year group are achieving.

I am looking forward to a productive and rewarding 2020 for our new Year 7 and their families as they begin their High School journey at St John’s.

Mr. Joshua Watson

Year 7 Coordinator