Principal 22/11: Keeping Focused and Finishing the School Year Well

Keeping Focused and Finishing the School Year Well

Today I shared a celebratory lunch with Year 10 students to mark an important milestone in their learning journey. Next year, they will begin their Stage 6 studies, embracing greater workloads in new courses and stepping into the leadership responsibilities of senior school students. In the coming days, Year 10 will prepare for the year ahead by participating in Peer Support training, equipping them with the skills and confidence to lead and serve next year’s Year 7 cohort.

This is just one of the school events that note the work of the year and look to the future. Earlier this week our Creative and Performing Arts team held the CAPA Open Night, providing students with the opportunity to showcase their work this year and their talents in the creative and performative arts.

Our incoming Year 7 students and their families enjoyed a glimpse of high school life during Year 7 Taster Day, while next year’s Kindergarten and Primary families participated in orientation sessions to explore and prepare for their new learning environments.

While the school remains bustling with events celebrating accomplishments and preparing for the year ahead, the final weeks of school can be challenging for some students. Staying focused and engaged during this time can feel particularly difficult.

If you’ve ever given notice at a workplace, you may understand how challenging it can be to stay committed, even with the best of intentions. Your mind is already anticipating what’s next, and it’s hard to stay present. The same can be true for students as the school year draws to a close. They’re excited for slower schedules, warm weather, Christmas celebrations, and perhaps family holidays. It’s tempting to “phone it in” and coast through the final weeks, but finishing the school year well—while challenging—is incredibly worthwhile. Here are some ways you can help your child finish strong:

1. Tie up loose ends. Has your child completed all their outstanding work? Check with their teacher to ensure they’re on track. This is particularly relevant for Year 12 2025 students, who started their HSC courses this term. If there’s unfinished work, now is the time to address it.
2. Give your children time outdoors. No one likes being cooped up inside for too long, especially when the weather is nice, and daylight is longer. Time outside playing after school will help clear their heads, give them some fresh air and burn off extra energy. Making this time in the evening will help them be more likely to keep focus during class.
3. Help them seize the moments. As excitement for summer holidays builds, it’s easy to take school days for granted. Encourage your child to make the most of the time they have left—whether it’s forming a new friendship, strengthening an existing one, or showing appreciation to a teacher with a heartfelt thank-you note or gift.
4. Set them up for success each day. Maintain a healthy sleep routine and start their mornings with a nutritious breakfast. These small habits can make a big difference in their ability to focus and engage.
5. Ask for their ideas.Your child’s perspective might surprise you. Ask them questions like, “What are two things you can do to end the school year strong?” or “How can you help your classmates finish well too?”
6. Acknowledge what is. It’s okay to admit you’re tired too. Remind your child that you’re all in this together – then find ways to be intentional together.
7. Help them reflect. Take time to reflect with your child on their accomplishments and struggles throughout the year. Unpack highs and lows with questions like: Did you make a new friend this year? How were you helpful? What did you learn about yourself? What tough challenges did you overcome? Remind your child of their strengths, and all they’ve accomplished this year and assure them you’ll help them reach the finish line strong.

Resisting the urge to go on autopilot in these final weeks may be tough, but it’s worth it. By setting a great example and encouraging your child, you’ll help them cross the finish line with pride and a sense of accomplishment.