Year 8

Year 8 in 2013 was a year of consolidation in the transition of our students into secondary school.

Mr Jim Shackleton Head of Year 8

A highlight of the year was without doubt, the Quest Retreat, a continuation of the work begun in 2012 as a part of faith formation and induction into the traditions and expectations of being a Trinity College student. The Year 8s were ably led by the Year 11 Peer Ministers through various memorable experiences such as the Canned Food Drive, going to the Peer Ministers’ homes, the time spent with their Big Sisters from Mercedes College and exploring further where God exists in their lives and confronting their faith and place in the world.

Socially, our students continue to build on their relationships with the girls at Mercedes College, hosting the girls for a games and pizza afternoon in Centenary Park whilst also attending a Black & White themed social at Mercedes in Term 3. The maturity, good humour and enthusiasm displayed by our students at these events impressed many as they begin to move on from the awkward and tentative behaviour shown in Year 7, into young men of growing confidence and integrity.

Academically, the students continued to strive to foster culture of academic excellence. Moving into the more difficult content in Year 8 has been a challenge that many have embraced with gusto. In both core and elective subjects, students worked hard to achieve their best, and get the most out of every opportunity presented to them. I look forward to seeing them build on this firm foundation in 2014. Year 8 students involved in music and performing arts continued to shine throughout the year at various performances. This was showcased at the Grandparents’ Morning Tea where some of our musicians performed in front of many students and family members to ensure a memorable occasion for the grandparents. This important occasion reinforced to the students the importance of community and gave them the chance to demonstrate our Men for Others mantra.

On the sporting field, the boys continued to uphold Trinity’s reputation for fair play, teamwork and commitment when representing the College. Our Year 8s made significant contributions to the PSA athletics and swimming teams whilst many of our students formed part of very successful summer and winter sporting teams.

I would like to thank the Year 8 Pastoral Care Group teachers, Jacob Marai (8.1), Glenn Christiansen (8.2), Rachel Konsolis (8.3), Adrian Good (8.4), Mary Hickey (8.5), Martin Guest (8.6) and Helen Andrich (8.7) and other staff for their absolute professionalism, diligence and care for the boys in their charge. Their tireless contribution towards the academic and pastoral care of the students has been outstanding. I could not be more proud of how the boys transformed themselves in such a short period of time, taking on new challenges, exploring their limitations and making new friends.

Finally I wish the Class of 2014 every success next year and I look forward to continuing with them on their journey to manhood at Trinity College.

Mr Jim Shackleton Head of Year 8