Year 7 students across government schools in Canberra have embarked on their high school journey, experiencing a blend of nervous anticipation and eager excitement. The first day marked a significant milestone as these young learners stepped into a new educational phase filled with opportunities and challenges.
Navigating New Beginnings with Support
At Mount Stromlo High School, Year 7 coordinators Hannah Khalil and Tessa Barbour have been instrumental in facilitating a smooth transition for incoming students. Through carefully planned transition days and modified timetables, students had the chance to familiarise themselves with the school environment and meet their teachers before the official start.
Ms Khalil emphasised the collaborative effort with primary school educators to gain deeper insights into each student's needs. "We asked questions about the support they required, how we could ensure a strong start to high school, and ways to foster their ongoing growth," she explained. This proactive approach aims to address individual requirements and set a positive tone for the academic year.
Building Confidence in a New Environment
Ms Barbour highlighted the importance of allowing Year 7 students to acclimate at their own pace. "High school operates very differently from primary school. By giving them space to explore without the presence of older students, they can build understanding and confidence gradually," she noted. The dedicated orientation day provided a low-pressure setting for students to grasp daily routines and navigate the campus independently.
Principal Peter Radford, with six years of experience at the school, observed the transformation in students throughout the day. "Initially, there are nerves, but by the afternoon, they're moving around the school with assurance, knowing exactly where they need to be," he shared. This shift from apprehension to self-assurance underscores the effectiveness of structured transition programs.
Explicit Teaching: A Continued Focus in High School
In alignment with broader educational initiatives, explicit teaching of literacy and numeracy remains a priority within Canberra's government schools. Following review recommendations, the emphasis on foundational skills, initially concentrated in primary settings, is now extending into high school curricula over the coming years.
Mr Radford clarified that explicit teaching has been a consistent practice at Mount Stromlo High for the past six years. "At the high school level, this involves teaching subject-specific literacy skills. For instance, in science, students learn to write lab reports, while in technology subjects, they might compose reviews or technical documents," he elaborated.
This tailored approach ensures that literacy development is integrated across all disciplines, not confined to English and humanities. "If subject teachers don't address the literacy demands of their field, students miss out on crucial skills. Equipping them with diverse writing abilities before college is a significant advantage," Mr Radford added.
Educators Share in the First-Day Experience
Interestingly, the sense of nervous excitement isn't limited to students. Teachers, despite their professional experience, often share similar first-day jitters. Ms Khalil admitted, "It might sound unusual, but even as adults, we feel those nerves. It's a reminder of the importance of this day for everyone involved."
Staff have been engaged in planning and professional development since late January, preparing to welcome students back. This collective effort highlights the community-wide commitment to supporting young learners as they transition into high school.
As the 2026 academic year unfolds, Year 7 students in Canberra are poised to embrace new friendships, explore elective subjects, and enjoy greater independence. With dedicated educators guiding their path, the journey from initial jitters to growing confidence promises to be a rewarding experience for all.
