A Head Start on Senior College

As the 2025 school year drew to a close, our Year 10 students took their first steps into Senior College, guided by their Year 11 peers.

Step Up into Senior College represents the passing of wisdom from one generation of students to the next. It is a program combining panel discussions with opportunities for personal advice and social activities that ensure Year 10 will have an easy transition into the last two years of school.

"It has been so valuable sharing our experience with the future Year 11s and getting the opportunity to reassure them about the coming year", reflected Year 11 Prefects, Juliet and Imi. "Our year group has learnt so much during 2025, and it has felt so surreal to reflect upon our time as Year 11s and impart our own wisdom."

The day began with a welcome from the Head of Senior College Santina Restuccia, followed by a panel of Year 11 Prefects who shared candid insights on everything from managing workloads and adjusting to higher academic expectations, to the privileges and responsibilities that accompany Senior College life. Gate duties, West Commons etiquette, student leadership opportunities and community standards were all discussed openly, with the panel encouraging questions and honest conversation.

Then followed a series of subject taster sessions led by the Year 11 students. Across three rotations, the Year 10 cohort sampled everything from History and Commercial Sciences to Languages and Creative Arts. Sophie, Alice and Izzy guided their younger peers through the Sciences; Molly and Jaz shared their passion for the Creative and Performing Arts, while Zoe and Lucinda offered a glimpse into the study of Languages. In each session, the student leaders were supported by Heads of Department and teachers. 

The academic preparation sessions proved equally impactful. Under the guidance of Academic Care Coordinator, Ms Gaskell, students explored evidence-based study techniques including active recall, the Pomodoro method and strategies to maintain wellbeing while navigating demanding coursework.

"One of the main things I took out of this session was how the brain loves to overcome challenges, especially when studying, such as solving a hard equation," noted Year 10 student, Amelia. "However, I found the most valuable piece of advice was to break my study into smaller chunks, so it seems less of a daunting task and helps reduce my procrastination."

The day concluded with a celebratory lunch in West Commons, bringing together Year 10 students, their Year 11 mentors, the Upper School and Senior College teams, and Heads of Department. 

As Juliet and Imi observed, "We wish the Year 10s all the best and we can't wait to share Senior College with them next year!" The Step Up day represented just one element of a broader program preparing students for life beyond the classroom. Throughout the term, sessions covered practical skills including driving instruction and car maintenance, dressing for career success, and panel discussions featuring professionals from a variety of industries. 

Together, these initiatives reflect Wenona's commitment to developing grounded, capable students ready to embrace Senior College with confidence.