Year 8

mr Craig Giles | Year 8 Level Coordinator

Greeting the new Year 8 boys at the start of the school year, there was a real sense of anticipation as the boys caught up with friends and schoolmates. There were lots of questions and excited discussions: Who are my new teachers? What classes am I in? Will I be with my friends? Can Richmond make it three-peat?

Unfortunately, COVID made the year difficult again, and through Term 2 and 3 we spent more time in remote learning than we did in the classroom. In all honesty, I was amazed by how well the boys managed the experience and the maturity and resilience they showed. Remote learning meant the boys had to be more organised and prepared to ask questions where they needed help. Microsoft Teams became an essential tool and the chat function was a great way for the boys to share their knowledge and help each other when needed. The support and involvement of families became critical during remote learning, and I congratulate all our families for the encouragement and care they showed in often very difficult times. Whilst we were restricted in the Year-level activities we could do, the virtual Father/Son Evening was a great night. Dads and their sons reflected and chatted about the role they play in each other’s lives, sharing some special memories. With all the worry and uncertainty present this year, the chance to share an evening together without distractions made it a memorable occasion, and the feedback from attendees was extremely positive. In one amazing piece of luck, we were able to have our Year 8 retreat at Phillip Island in Term 3. It was a great chance for the boys to spend time with their friends and challenge themselves in a range of outdoor activities. Letter writing is always a great experience; hopefully parents enjoyed reading their son’s letter as much as the boys enjoyed receiving one back. Returning to school in Term 4 was something all the staff and students were looking forward to. I continue to get great feedback from Oratory and subject teachers on the behaviour and respect that this year level shows; I’m disappointed that we haven’t had more time together in what was a pretty disjointed year. As Year Level Coordinator, I’d like to congratulate the boys for the way they have managed the year and all the challenges they have overcome. Hopefully the experiences of the year contribute to the building of capable, resilient and respectful young men who will continue to make a positive contribution to the school and their communities. On behalf of all Year 8s, I’d like to thank all of the teachers that have taught and encouraged the boys to give of their best, in particular, the Orators: Mr Azar (8A), Mr Seeber (8B), Ms Barcelona (8C), Mr Chen (8D), Mr Verbyla (8F), Ms Pinili (8G) and Mr Campisano (8H). I look forward to following the development of these boys, and hope they have an enjoyable and productive time at our Mannix campus in 2022.