QCS and Exams

This week marked a massive milestone for our Year 12 students as they completed the QCS Test over two days. The results of these tests contribute to their OP score and signifies the start of the countdown to the end for the cohort. It was great to witness the coming together and participation in a long-held tradition for Year 12 students, the singing of the ‘Wade in the Water’ hymn, enthusiastically led by our Principal. The enthusiasm and vigour with which the whole cohort engaged in the process was exceptional and set the tone for the start of their first exam. We congratulate all students who completed the test with a smile on their face and wish them the very best for their results.

It is also at this time of term that all Senior College students find themselves in the middle of heavy assessment loads. When this occurs, it is easy for all of us to begin to focus on negative thoughts or begin to doubt ourselves and our abilities. However, it is also important to consider the benefits of being stretched and challenged, as this is when significant growth (both academically and personally) occurs. It is often through tough times that we learn the most. We encourage all students to focus on their strengths and calmly identify the next step to continue building on their learning. It also makes it a little easier to get through, knowing that holidays are just around the corner!

Throughout Term 3, the College has hosted two Year 10 students, Koki and Ikumi, from our sister school in Japan, Seishin Gakuen. It has been a valuable learning experience for both Seishin and Pacific students to engage in a cross-cultural exchange. Koki and Ikumi have enjoyed the Australian lifestyle and have made considerable improvements in their English understanding. Pacific students have also formed strong bonds with Koki and Ikumi and have learnt as much from them as they have learnt from us. We thank our host families – the Buchanan’s, Swindles’ and Ousley’s – for their generosity, enthusiasm and care. We wish Koki and Ikumi all the very best for their future in Japan and hope to see them again in the near future.

Senior student Sam Aitken has long been known to us as someone with great musical talent and has been managing his pursuit of a musical career with his final year of schooling. Sam’s group, Sametime, will be performing a private event at Venue 114 this Friday 6^th September and our Year 10-12 students are invited to be part of a ‘staged audience’ for a promotional video for the band. The event starts from 5.30pm. This is a great opportunity for members of the school community who enjoy and follow Sam’s band to support him. We wish Sam all the very best in his musical pursuits as he progresses with his career in the industry.

Mr Mark Hauser, Head of Senior College Students