There is something distinctive about this stage of the term in Senior School. As one cohort begins to look towards life beyond Wilderness, another starts to imagine the opportunities and responsibilities that come with being our senior students. It is a term marked by growth, reflection and preparation, with opportunities for students to develop as learners, leaders and members of our community.
Our Year 11 Retreat was a highlight of the fortnight, centred on the themes of stewardship, teamwork and leadership. Throughout the program, students were challenged to consider how they can make a positive difference to those around them and the legacy they hope to leave as they prepare to become our Class of 2027.
The retreat drew on the experience and wisdom of a number of Wilderness staff. Students heard from our Heads of House, Mr Snell, Mrs De Blasio, Mr D’Aloisio, and Mr Mittiga, each sharing their own perspectives on leadership, service and personal growth. Alongside a range of collaborative activities and team challenges, these sessions encouraged the girls to reflect on the fact that leadership is not defined by a title, but by the way we support others, take responsibility and contribute to the culture of our community.
That same spirit of connection was evident in our annual Year 12 Friendship Night, this year hosted by Seymour College. Bringing together students from both schools, the evening was filled with laughter, healthy competition and opportunities to build new friendships. Themed ‘Battle of the Bands’, the girls were in mixed-school teams and tackled rounds of trivia spanning history, popular culture and general knowledge. More importantly, the evening reminded us of the value of stepping beyond our familiar circles and embracing opportunities to connect with others.
Looking ahead, Week 4 centres around the Year 10 and Year 11 course counselling process. Choosing subjects for the following year is an important milestone and we encourage students to approach these conversations with curiosity and an open mind. The most successful pathways are those that reflect each student's own strengths, interests and future aspirations. We look forward to partnering with students and families as they make informed decisions about the opportunities ahead.
Our attention will also soon turn to the 2027 SRC nominations process. Leadership at Wilderness takes many forms, and we encourage every student to consider how she might make a positive contribution to our community. Whether through a formal leadership position or through the quieter, everyday acts of encouragement, inclusion and responsibility, every student has the capacity to influence the culture of our school in positive ways.
Finally, a reminder about the importance of the routines that underpin a successful school day. Arriving punctually to Form each morning, dressed correctly in school uniform, demonstrates respect for our community and ensures students begin the day settled and ready to learn. These seemingly small habits contribute to a culture of pride, belonging and shared responsibility, qualities that sit at the heart of life in the Senior School.
