Senior School

The Manifestation of Joy in the Senior School

A Journey Through the Everyday Moments

Senior School is often depicted as a challenging period replete with academic pressures, social challenges, and the quest for self-discovery. However, amidst these trials, joy manifests in myriad ways, illuminating the corridors of learning and growth with a radiant glow. In this passage, I would like to explore the multifaceted ways in which joy finds its place in secondary schools, transforming the educational experience into a vibrant tapestry of memorable moments.

Academic Achievement and Intellectual Curiosity

One of the most profound sources of joy in Senior School for many students (but sadly, not all) is the sense of accomplishment that accompanies academic achievement. Whether it's the elation of receiving a 90+ ATAR at the end of Year 12, or simply a stellar mark on a challenging examination, the satisfaction of mastering a difficult concept, or the pride in presenting a well-researched project, these intellectual victories instil a deep-seated sense of fulfillment. Additionally, as an educator, I would like to think that the pursuit of knowledge itself can be a joyful endeavour. The curiosity sparked by an engaging lesson, the excitement of delving into a new subject, and the thrill of intellectual discovery contribute to a joyful academic journey. One of the moments in my experience as a biology teacher that brings me immense joy is seeing the face of a student change when battling through tough content, when suddenly the bells of enlightenment toll and said student simply “gets it”. As a teacher, there are few moments more fulfilling than that exact point when “the light goes on”.

Co-curricular Involvement

Co-curricular activities play a pivotal role in manifesting joy in Senior School. Participation in sport, music, musical theatre or Art Club, and other co-curricular pursuits provides students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop new skills, and forge meaningful connections with peers. The camaraderie and sense of belonging that arise from being part of a team or group are invaluable sources of joy. The exhilaration of a victorious game or the applause following a stellar performance contribute to a joyful school experience. I have no doubt that the performance of the Xanadu cast, so wonderfully well led by Cecily de Gooyer and Archie Robson, brought immense joy to the packed-out crowds that attended across three days, baying for one more song. More significantly, the joy of participating in such a visual and auditory feast for so many Newhaven College students is no doubt still palpable.

Social Connections and Friendships

The friendships formed during a young person’s schooling are often some of the most significant and enduring relationships in one's life. The bonds forged through shared experiences, mutual support, and genuine companionship are powerful sources of joy. Whether it's the daily interactions with friends, the inside jokes, the collaborative study sessions, or the heartfelt moments of mutual challenge and support, these social connections create a sense of community and belonging. I see these connections forged every day in the Senior School between young men and women who care for each other and will be there for their friends when support is needed, and when the joy of celebrating successes inevitably comes. The joy derived from these relationships enriches the school experience, providing a source of comfort and happiness amidst what can seem like insurmountable challenges.

Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

The latter years of school are a transformative period of personal growth and self-discovery. The journey of understanding oneself, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and developing a sense of identity brings immense joy not only to a young person but also to their parents. The milestones achieved along this journey, such as overcoming personal obstacles, achieving personal goals, and gaining confidence in one's abilities, are sources of profound happiness. The joy of self-discovery and personal growth is a testament to the resilience and potential of all young people, something that can sadly be lost as we age.

Acts of Kindness and Compassion

Acts of kindness and compassion contribute significantly to the manifestation of joy in high school. Whether it's a simple gesture of helping a classmate, participating in community service, or supporting a friend in need, these acts create a ripple effect of positivity and joy. The sense of fulfillment and happiness derived from making a positive impact on others is a powerful source of joy. The contribution of our four College Captains in recent ANZAC Day celebrations both at Newhaven College and in the communities of Inverloch, San Remo and Cowes was outstanding. All four captains spoke so beautifully to thousands of locals, charming crowds with their anecdotes and determination to acknowledge the efforts and the loss of those who fought and died at Gallipoli during The Great War. Personally, I am immensely proud to say that we have created a sense of joy within the Senior School. Our senior students and teachers, without a doubt, foster a culture of kindness and empathy and create an environment where joy can flourish.

Brett Torstonson

Head of Senior School

Year 9 Update

Term 2 has launched at full speed for our Year 9 students, and they’ve risen to the challenge with energy, enthusiasm, and impressive maturity.

We kicked off the term with the much-loved Gaelic Community Games. This was followed by an immersive study of World War I in Xplore, featuring a powerful and moving monologue presentation by Glenn from Troubie Theatre. His performance brought history to life and left a lasting impression on our students.

Earlier this week, we returned from our Melbourne excursions, where students visited the Shrine of Remembrance and explored the Southbank and Yarra precincts. The trip was not only an opportunity to deepen their understanding of Australia’s wartime history but also a valuable first step in preparing for their upcoming City Cite experience. Our students were fantastic representatives of the College being engaged, respectful, and confident, navigating the city environment.

Amid this packed schedule, the students have continued to excel in all areas. Their achievements in SEISA Athletics and their contributions to the College Production deserve special recognition. I am incredibly proud of the way the Year 9 cohort has handled the pace and pressure of this term so far.

Looking ahead, students will soon be submitting their preferences for Peak Pursuit, our end-of-year outdoor adventure programme. Excitement is already building, and we’re thrilled to see so many students asking questions and showing such strong interest. More information will be supplied to students in our Year 9 assembly.

Our Year 9 students will soon begin their mid-year exams, with assessments in English, Science, and Maths scheduled across Week 6 and 7. This is an important opportunity for students to consolidate their learning and demonstrate their progress. We encourage all students to approach this period with focus and commitment, making use of the study support available through their classes and teachers. An alternative program will run alongside exams to provide time for revision, City Cite preparation, and continued engagement with Community Studies.

Well done to all Year 9s for their ongoing effort.

Sam Foura 
Head of Year 9