Philosophy

Energy, excitement, engagement. These words come to mind when describing Wenona's Middle School program.

Girls in Years 7, 8 and 9 make up Wenona's Middle School. Our aim is to engender a special identity for girls in these years, and a real sense of community.

These are exciting and challenging years. They are the beginning of a girl's secondary education. They are years when a girl transitions from a child into a young woman. At Wenona we are committed to helping girls manage the challenges presented as they journey through adolescence.

There are key members of staff in the Middle School structure. The tutor, Head of House and Head of Middle School monitor the progress of each girl. They also implement the academic care program for each year group, ensuring that each stage is age-appropriate. Activities are designed to teach relationship skills, conflict resolution, organisation skills, healthy living and personal development.

A strong team of academic and pastoral care staff support the Middle School – Heads of House, Year Coordinators, tutors, Heads of Department, class teachers, learning support staff, School Counsellors and the Careers Counsellor.

Teachers work together to provide the ideal blend of structure and freedom in which adolescent girls flourish - a safe haven where girls feel challenged to excel, yet comfortable enough to try new things, to learn from their mistakes and to grow.

Careful attention is paid to the skills girls will need in the Senior College (Years 10, 11 and 12), especially written expression, analytical and creative thinking and sound study methods. We also stress to girls the importance of asking probing questions and of taking responsibility and working effectively, both on their own and in groups.