As we begin Term 4, I would like to warmly welcome back all Year 9 students and their families to what is always a busy, important and rewarding stage of the school year. The final term provides a valuable opportunity for all students to demonstrate growth, maturity, and leadership as they complete their final assessments and prepare for the transition into Year 10.

At San Clemente, we continue to uphold high expectations around positive behaviour and respect—both in and out of the classroom. I encourage all students to act with integrity, kindness, and responsibility, contributing to a safe and supportive learning environment for everyone. Positive behaviour enables not only personal success but also enhances the wellbeing and learning of the entire cohort.

This term also sees the full implementation of our revised uniform policy. I want to thank families for their ongoing support and understanding as students take pride in wearing their uniform correctly and representing our college community with dignity and respect. A consistent approach to uniform standards helps build a sense of unity and belonging among students. Adhering to uniform expectations not only promotes a sense of belonging and equality within our community but also reflects our shared commitment to respect and discipline. We encourage parents and carers to check that all uniform items meet College standards, including appropriate footwear and accessories. Should any issues arise, we invite families to contact the school early so that we can work together to find practical solutions.

As students move closer to end-of-year examinations and final assessments, I want to encourage parents and carers to remain actively connected to their child’s learning journey. Simple actions such as checking Compass, engaging in conversations about daily progress, and supporting good study habits at home can make a significant difference. Together, we can ensure that your child finishes the year with confidence and a sense of achievement. Taking time to discuss study goals, review assessment schedules, and provide encouragement at home can make a meaningful difference. Students are encouraged to use study planners, seek feedback from their teachers, and access available learning support and revision resources. Open communication between school and home will ensure that each student feels well prepared and confident as they head into their final assessments and examinations.

Things to consider for your child in the lead up, during, as well as after the examinations might include;

• Before Exams: Preparation is Key

1. Create a Study Schedule:

• Break revision into small, manageable chunks.
• Focus on one subject or topic at a time.
• Start early — avoid cramming the night before.

• Choose a quiet area with good lighting.
• Keep distractions (like phones) away.
• Have all materials ready — textbooks, notes, pens, and highlighters.

• Summarise key points in your own words.
• Create mind maps, flashcards, or practice quizzes.
• Teach a topic to someone else — if you can explain it clearly, you know it well.

• Get used to the style and timing of exam questions.
• Review marking criteria to understand what teachers are looking for.

• Sleep 8–9 hours a night.
• Eat balanced meals and drink plenty of water.
• Take short breaks every 30–40 minutes to stay fresh.

• During Exams: Stay Calm and Focused

1. Arrive Early and Prepared:

• Bring all necessary materials — pens, calculator, ruler, etc.
• Take deep breaths and stay positive before entering the exam room.

• Spend the first few minutes reading through all questions.
• Highlight key words like explain, evaluate, compare.

• Allocate time for each question and keep an eye on the clock.
• If you get stuck, move on and return later.

• Stick to the question — don’t go off track.
• Use clear, structured paragraphs or bullet points if appropriate.

• Use any extra time to review spelling, grammar, and missing details.
• Make sure you’ve answered every question.

• After Exams: Reflect and Recharge

1. Don’t Dwell on Mistakes:

• Once it’s done, it’s done — move forward with the next subject.
• Focus your energy on what you can still improve.

• When results come back, read teacher comments carefully.
• Note which topics or skills need more attention next time.

• Reward yourself for your hard work, regardless of the outcome.
• Take time to relax, spend time with family and friends, and recharge.

• Use what you’ve learned this exam season to prepare for Year 10.
• Identify strategies that worked well and build on them

I would like to wish all Year 9 students every success for Term 4 and thank our families for their continued partnership and support in fostering the values that make San Clemente Catholic College such a unique, vibrant and caring community.

A final thought on the importance of being prepared;

“To be prepared against surprise is to be trained. To be prepared for surprise is to be educated.”

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 & Engagement Year 9