Year 7

The transition from Primary School to Secondary College is a challenging experience for all students. New surroundings, new peers, and a new learning structure are just a few of the changes to which each student must acclimatise, and the staff at Nazareth College understand this challenge for students and are actively supportive of all individuals new to the College.

The homeroom system allows students to initiate and maintain new friendships with their peers, and to build a positive and trusting relationship with their homeroom teacher. Students have daily contact with their homeroom teacher, who teaches them for at least two subjects. One of these is the Christian Education and Personal Development Program, which encompasses a wide range of topics, including pastoral care, organisational skills, friendships, drug education, sexuality, and anti-bullying programs.

A common-room area exclusively available for Year 7 students provides a comfortable space for the students to mingle and relax during break periods, and foster new friendships and support networks.

Year 7 students participate in a three-day camp in Term 2, which allows students and teachers time away from the College to bond and foster new friendships.

One successful feature of the transition for Year 7 students is the Peer Support Program. Year 11 students volunteer to participate, and are allocated a small group of Year 7 students to liaise with and act as their Peer Support Leader. The Peer Support Leaders develop a positive relationship with the members of their group, and act as a ‘buddy’ for their group members, engaging in various activities to help the new students settle in and become more confident and comfortable in their new environment. The Peer Support Program has been heralded as a great success and positive experience by both the Year 7 students and their Year 11 leaders.