I spent a very busy Friday night rearranging furniture, packing away desk lights, removing extension cords and relocating computer paraphernalia back into the study. No more working from home, no more complaining about the internet and no more dog barking in the background. What a relief for my family and I am sure, for many Carey families!
While the repurposing of the dining room was purely physical, the associated loss of large family dinners has been saddening. The welcoming of loved ones, the togetherness of preparing, the vibrant conversations and the ‘you are special’ celebrations have been sadly missed, hard to accept and emotional to resolve. So we have become quite creative. There have been some winners – my 90-year-old mum loved her helium balloons – and some loses – Lachie’s soggy 18th picnic – but it has been important to keep those special events alive.
Similarly, now that we have Middle School back in action, our focus is to offer as many of our special events as possible. We are aiming to connect students and build friendships. We will create opportunities for students to work in teams and support each other. We wish to challenge their thinking and rekindle their love of learning. And, yes, we want to keep some traditions alive!
It has already been great to see our students in their House colours at the Athletics Day. Running, jumping, cheering, chatting… and the rain just made the day more memorable! And there is much more to come.
Year 7s will be involved in a STEM day where they will build and race solar cars. There will be the annual class parties, an English incursion and they will spend the final week of term on Enviro. This will be a special week giving students the opportunity to develop an understanding of the fragile environment and their responsibility to take positive action.
Next week, Year 8s finish Calibr8 with students either on Rural Gippsland or engaging in the powerful Human Rights Convention. Towards the end of term, the traditional Cape Schank geography excursion will see Year 8s reflecting on the power of natural environment. They will also take part in a brand-new Intensive Day where they will learn something brand-new – German, golf and Medieval jousting are some of the offerings!
To mark the end of their time in Middle School, Year 9 students will share an afternoon of celebration with their Head of House. They will then head off on their three-week rotation of Civics and Citizenship, C-Change City Challenge and Wabonga Outdoor Education. Independence, resilience and responsibility are strong themes in this rich ‘step-up’ program.
All students will be involved as the audience for Celebration Assemblies, Christmas Services and the Christmas Carol play as our musicians and actors finally get to do what they do best, perform!
It will be an action-packed few weeks for all Middle School students, teachers and administrators. Hopefully you will hear lots about your child’s adventures, insights and connections in your own dining rooms!
Meredith Plaisted
Deputy Head of Middle School – Student Learning
