From the Leader of Wellbeing - Year 9

Welcome back to another term at St Andrews College, 

Stepping Up: Year 9 Leads the Way Into Term 4

As we enter the final term of the school year, our Year 9 students are at an important turning point. This is a time for reflection, responsibility, and readiness, a time to step up and prepare to become the senior leaders of our school community in Year 10.

This term, the focus for Year 9 is on attitude, growth, and leadership. The message is clear: you don’t need a badge to be a leader. Leadership begins with the choices you make each day, how you speak to others, how you wear your uniform, how you respond to feedback, and how you approach challenges.

Building a Positive Mindset

A major focus has been developing a growth mindset, the belief that ability and character can be developed through effort, reflection, and perseverance. Students are encouraged to shift from “I can’t” to “I’ll try,” and to see mistakes as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to give up.

Negativity can be contagious, and when a few people adopt a negative attitude, it can easily spread through a group. Instead, we’re challenging students to be the positive influence, the person who lifts others up, brings energy and encouragement, and makes the environment better for everyone.

Respect, Responsibility, and Role Modelling

As the oldest year group on campus next year, Year 9 students are now expected to model the standards they want others to follow. This includes how they use technology, wear their uniform, and treat shared spaces.

Leadership means making mature choices, especially when it’s easier to go along with others. True leaders don’t follow the crowd; they think for themselves and take pride in doing what’s right.

High Standards, High Potential

Whether it’s maintaining uniform expectations, using technology responsibly, or showing respect around the school, these expectations aren’t about rules for the sake of rules, they’re about helping students develop self-discipline, pride, and personal responsibility. These are the qualities that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

Looking Ahead

Year 9 has tremendous potential. With a positive attitude and a willingness to grow, this cohort can set the tone for a successful end to the year and enter Year 10 as confident, respectful, and capable leaders.

As we remind them: don’t be a follower, be the standard. The way forward is about growth, respect, and showing others what genuine leadership looks like.

Mr Kharl Carlos
Leader of Wellbeing - Year 9