29 MAY 2025 Nurturing Faith and Identity Through Learning

As we near the halfway point of the school year, it is a wonderful opportunity to pause and reflect on the rich and diverse learning that has taken place in Religious Education across Years 7 to 12. Each year level has engaged deeply with themes that invite personal reflection, spiritual growth, and a deeper understanding of our Catholic traditions.

Our Year 7 students embarked on their high school faith journey by exploring the concept of belonging—to family, community, and God. They reflected on their own experiences and the significance of inclusion and connection while examining the universal call to treat others as we wish to be treated. This exploration grounded their learning in the teachings of Jesus and helped them apply these principles to their everyday lives.

Year 8 students also engaged with the development of personal identity, considering how faith, family, and culture shape who they are. They stepped into the world of Jesus’ early life, gaining insights into the Jewish traditions and historical context that influenced His teachings.

In Year 9, students explored the power of voice and advocacy, drawing inspiration from prophetic figures and modern-day changemakers. This experience encouraged them to reflect on Mary’s courageous response to God’s call and consider how they, too, are invited to respond with faith and trust in their own lives.

Year 10 students delved into the sacred, focusing on the significance of the Eucharist and its central role in Catholic life. They were invited to embrace the practice of stillness and contemplation, learning how prayer and silence can deepen their relationship with God in an often busy world.

Our Year 11 students undertook a rigorous study of sacred texts. They explored the nature and purpose of scriptural texts within a religious tradition and examined the historical and cultural contexts in which these texts were written, developing their skills in interpretation and critical analysis.

Meanwhile, Year 12 students have continued their in-depth engagement with scripture. They focused on the literary forms and features of sacred texts and investigated how these texts have been interpreted and understood over time. Their thoughtful engagement and mature insights have been among the highlights of the year thus far.

Across all year levels, our students have shown a genuine openness to learning, a willingness to ask big questions, and a growing sense of how faith can shape their lives and the world around them. I am deeply grateful to our dedicated Religious Education staff who guide and support our students on this journey.

May we continue to walk together in faith, courage, and compassion as we look ahead to the rest of the year.

May God bless you.

Ruth Yousif
Learning Leader – Religious Education