Middle School Report – December 6, 2017

The St Patrick’s College Middle School continues to be a significant and positive experience in the lives of each of our boys. We openly acknowledge that Year 9 is a time of significant change in the lives of adolescent boys and thus a vital time when our boys journey into manhood. The Middle School Staff strive to provide opportunities for each young man to develop into independent and active learners through a curriculum that awakens and stimulates their intelligence, provides academic rigour and challenges all boys to discover their best.

The St Patrick’s College Middle School is committed to the notion of a year filled with positive experiences and acknowledges the importance of the changing stages of young men’s lives. Our -Rite Journey Programme- guides the boys as they are beginning to leave behind elements of boyhood and are starting the journey of taking on the responsibilities manhood demands. The boys are also heavily involved in a number of experiential based activities including: –

• Queenscliff Camp – The boys immersed themselves in the various activities on offer including: surfing, snorkelling, team initiatives and canoe challenge.- The night time sessions run by the Pastoral Care Tutors explored leadership themes and perceptions based around what it means to be a good man;

• Interaction Day – The boys also enjoyed their Interaction Day with the Year 9 girls from Loreto College participating in a number of fun activities;

• Melbourne Experience – The Melbourne Experience attempted to develop within the boys a sense of independence and initiative along with helping to equip them with -‘basic’ city skills;

• Retreat — A focus on discovering true masculinity and the many challenges young men face in our modern world was explored;-

• SPC/Loreto Social – Ballroom dancing classes culminating with a social evening with the Year 9 Loreto girls;

• Grampians Camp – The Grampians Camp was the culmination of the -Rite Journey Programme-. The boy’s willingness to embrace the challenges presented and support each other, was an indication of how far their journey from boyhood to manhood has come.

I would like to personally thank all teachers who contributed so much to the life and vibrancy of Middle School. In particular, I must give the highest commendation to Mr Stuart Harridge, Mrs Ashleigh Giampaolo and Mr Shane Hayes in their roles as Year Level Co-ordinators. They have not only been a great support for me but must be congratulated for their care, professionalism and energy; guiding and supporting the young men of the Middle School.- I also thank the Middle School Pastoral Care Tutors including, Mr Chris Giampaolo, Mrs Louise Klopak, Mrs Kristine Smardon, Mr Nathan Geaghan, Mr Michael Weadon, Mr Jake Clark, Mr Samuel Cue, Mr Andrew Agardy, and Mr Emmanuel Desfosses. This wonderful and dedicated group worked tirelessly, ensuring all boys were exposed to a range of intellectual, physical, social and spiritual challenges.

Lastly, to the Year 9 boys of 2017, although your time has come to an end don’t forget the challenges you have overcome, the knowledge you have received and the bonds that you have formed. Take them with you and continue to use them along your journey. Good luck and all the best for 2018