Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the duty of all humankind.

Ecclesiastes 12:13

Although there are still three weeks of school left in the 2025 academic year, it is natural for staff and students to be thinking about the end of the year and be planning for 2026. Year 8 students have chosen their electives for Year 9 and they are busy preparing their dance for the annual Dance Battle. Adjustments will be made to their Year 9 classes and Homerooms during the Headstart period, which begins on Monday 24 November.

The Dance Battle is one of the highlights of the year and requires a broad range of skills to be successful. Each Homeroom prepares a dance of three to four minutes, and then each group performs their dance on Wednesday 26 November during Periods 4 and 5. Students are in control of the entire process – the choreography, the music, costumes and any backdrops needed.

During the preparation process the Year 8 students need to work together, manage conflict and communicate clearly – essential skills for success now and in later life. Teamwork is an essential part of a successful Dance Battle performance, and to quote Ray Kroc (founder of the McDonald’s franchise): “None of us is as good as all of us.” Wise words indeed!

It is essential that we mark the end of the year fully and appropriately. Transitions can be times of loss as well as of opportunities. Although it’s exciting to be moving into the Kildare Centre, there may be a loss of the identity built up in the Year 8 Homeroom and the relationships built throughout the year. Some students will feel vulnerable or anxious about this process and will require reassurance from their teachers, friends and family. Their teachers will help them reflect on their growth and achievements throughout the year, celebrating all they have accomplished in 2025.

Whatever happens, they can start to prepare for a well-earned break and start to plan for the wonderful opportunities that await them in Year 9 in 2026. No doubt the families of Year 8 have earned a break also, and we ask for God’s blessing upon them during the Christmas season.

Bill Fitzsimons

Level Leader: Year 8