Dear Year 9 families, welcome back to Term 2.

I hope the Easter break provided you and your young people with rest, renewal, and chance to reset together. As we continue to celebrate the risen Christ, we are reminded of the immense love and hope that Easter brings to our lives.

This term marks a significant period in your child's educational journey. Year 9 is a pivotal year where students build upon their foundational knowledge and prepare for the challenges of the senior years, with all students expected to sit for their very first formal examinations. It's a time for deepening learning, exploring new opportunities, and making important decisions about future pathways.

In the coming weeks, students will engage in assessments and their first formal examinations that provide valuable insights into their progress. These are not only a measure of academic achievement but also an opportunity for students to reflect on their learning and set goals for improvement.

As always, we encourage open communication between home and school. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child's teachers, the relevant Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement (LoWE) or the college administration - your partnership is vital in supporting your child's success.

Term 2 is always an exceptionally bust time and there are a number of important events on the calendar, including;

• U14’s Boys McKendry Shield (Round 1) – Monday 19^th May (Week 4)
• U16’s Girls Rugby (Round 2) – Tuesday 20^th May (Week 4)
• U15’s Boys Rugby League Gala Day – Thursday 21^st May (Week 4)
• Diocesan Tennis Gala Day – Thursday 21^st May (Week 4)
• NSW OzTag Gala Day – Thursday 29^th May (Week 5)
• U15’s Diocesan Netball Selection – Thursday 29^th May (Week 5)
• Stage 5 Semester One Examinations – Friday 6^th June to Friday 13^th June

In the lead up to the Semester One examinations and being our Year 9 students’ first formal exam period, it is imperative that our young people prepare well to give themselves every chance of success during this time. However, in my experience such preparation is a team effort with families playing a crucial role before, during and post exams. List below are some ways in which families might like to support our students – your children – as they prepare to tackle their first formal exams that commence at the end of Week 6;

1. Before the Examinations -

Support during this week is crucial for building confidence, reducing anxiety, and establishing effective study habits.

Practical Support

• Create a study schedule: Help your child map out a revision timetable that balances study, breaks, and other commitments – eg soccer/netball training
• Organise the study space: Ensure a quiet, well-lit, and comfortable area free from distractions – especially mobile phones!
• Gather resources: Help access past papers, study guides, and stationery they might need.

Emotional Support

• Encourage a positive mindset: Focus on effort rather than results. Praise progress and persistence.
• Talk openly about anxiety: Normalize nerves and discuss strategies to manage stress (e.g. mindfulness, breathing exercises).

Wellbeing Support

• Promote healthy habits: Encourage good sleep, regular meals, hydration, and physical activity.
• Limit screen time: Help set boundaries around social media and gaming to avoid distractions.

2. During the Examinations -

Support here helps manage nerves and maintain wellbeing throughout the exam period.

Daily Routines

• Stick to routines: Maintain regular wake/sleep times, meals, and breaks.
• Provide healthy meals: Nutritious breakfasts and snacks support concentration and energy levels.
• Ensure materials are ready: Help them pack their bag each night with the necessary equipment.

Emotional Support

• Stay calm and encouraging: Reassure them, listen to their concerns, and avoid adding pressure.
• Avoid over-questioning: Ask how they feel, not just how they performed.

After the Examinations -

This phase is about helping students reflect, recover, and prepare for next steps—emotionally and academically.

Celebrate Effort

• Acknowledge their hard work: Celebrate their effort and resilience, regardless of outcomes.
• Plan a reward: A simple outing or activity they enjoy can provide motivation and closure.

Support Reflection

• Talk about the experience: Discuss what worked well and what they could do differently next time.
• Encourage goal setting: Use the experience to build future learning habits, not to dwell on mistakes.

Maintain Perspective

• Remind them it’s a learning experience: Reinforce that this is just one step in their education journey.
• Watch for burnout: Support relaxation and balance after exams to help them recharge

A final thought on the importance of preparedness;

“There are no secrets to success. It is the direct result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure.”

Families, as always, should you wish to discuss an issue concerning your child please do not hesitate to call The Office on 40147300 or email me directly - mitch.allan@mn.catholic.edu.au

Warm Regards,

Mitch Allan – Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement Year 9