Middle School Report – February 4, 2016

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome back all of our parents, students and staff to the 2016 academic year. In particular, I wish to make all of our new students feel most welcome as they embark upon their journey here at St Patrick’s College. May their time at the College be a rewarding and positive experience.

2016 promises once again to be a busy, but exciting time for the Middle School. Led by a very able and dedicated team, there are currently 234 boys enrolled in Year 9 this year making us at full capacity. The first few days have seen the boys settle into their new environment in the Sir Hugh Devine building and commence their subjects aimed at developing the skills they have already acquired in the Junior School, in preparation for their transition into the Senior School. I encourage the students to fully apply themselves towards their studies and ensure that they are meeting all requirements, in particular with regards to homework. –

The Outdoor Education program commences in March with the annual Queenscliff camp. Each homeroom will experience the YMCA Camp Wyuna with their pastoral teacher over three days. This is a great opportunity to forge new friendships and maintain existing ones in an idyllic setting. Further information regarding the camp will be sent home with the students in the coming weeks, in particular the dates when your son’s pastoral group will be embarking.

The Rite Journey pastoral program is once again a central element to the Middle School experience designed to nurture our boys as they develop from adolescence into adulthood. I encourage parents to become actively involved with their sons during this program and work with them as they develop the key skills of decision making and accepting responsibility.- The journey into adulthood is a key theme of the Middle School and this is a process which will require collaboration from students, parents and staff.

If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your son’s pastoral teacher or one of the Coordinators. I look forward to working with you all this year.

Wishing you all the very best for 2016,

Mr Ross Wise

Director of Middle School