Middle School Report – July 28, 2016

As the weather continues to be bleak, wet and windy in Ballarat, the students of the Middle School are to be commended for their attitude and application since returning from the Term 2 holidays. As I walk around the corridors and classrooms of the Sir Hugh Devine Building, I continue to be impressed with the learning and positive engagement taking place amongst the boys with their teachers and one another as they fully embrace Semester 2. Well done boys!

2017 Subject Selection

Last week all Year 9 students met in the Pavilion to meet with key teachers associated with 2017 subject selection. Director of Administration Mr Damian Kinnersly went through the online application process and explained in detail how the boys need to apply for their respective subject choices. Senior English teachers Mr Joseph Magee and Miss Sarah Sharp, were able to provide invaluable insight into the different English options available from Year 10 and encouraged the boys to try something different, which may enhance their respective strengths. For all things Applied Learning, Mrs Lyn Maniz was able to answer any relevant queries in regards to this exciting new prospective pathway offered at St. Patrick’s from 2017. Mr John Sullivan elaborated further on all thing VET so that boys wanting to pursue these options were fully informed of what they need to do in order to ensure a successful application. I was able to speak to the boys this week in relation to Unit 1/2 subject offerings. Capable students are strongly encouraged to consider undertaking a 1/2 subject in Year 10, especially those hoping to complete a 3/4 subject in Year 11. Any student who requires any further information needs to speak with the respective Faculty Head and obtain an application form. I urge all students to continue the conversations with parents and teachers as they consider their choices. All applications need to returned by Wednesday the 3^rd of August 2016.

Dance lessons

We are now into the third week of Dance Lessons before the Social next Wednesday the 3^rd of August with the girls from Loreto. The boys are doing an admirable job working on their dancing skills and I look forward to seeing them in action next week. Photos will be a prominent feature in the next edition of the Crest! Any questions regarding the Social can be directed either to myself or one of the Year 9 Coordinators at the College.

Oval Use

Students are reminded that with the wet weather, many of the ovals, in particular the Shed Oval, will be closed at times until such time as they are able to dry out. As much fun as rolling in the mud may be, I am sure teachers and parents would appreciate not having to deal with wet and muddy uniforms! Hopefully the weather will be more favourable in the coming weeks. In the meantime, stay warm and dry!

Kindest regards,

Mr Ross Wise

Director of Middle School