The Calling and Departure Ceremony is only the beginning of the experiences and reflections that make up The Rite Journey throughout Year 9.
Last week, our Year 9 students participated in the Calling and Departure Ceremony, an important milestone within the Year 9 Compass Programme and a key element of The Rite Journey. While the afternoon was certainly windy, the significance of the occasion was not diminished. In many ways, the blustery conditions added to the atmosphere, reminding us that the journey from childhood to young adulthood is not always calm or predictable, but it is always meaningful.
The Calling and Departure Ceremony marks the beginning of an important transition for our Year 9 students as they move from childhood toward young adulthood. It provides an opportunity for students to pause, reflect, and acknowledge that they are entering a stage of life where responsibility, character, and personal values become increasingly important. During the ceremony, students were encouraged to consider the type of young men and women they aspire to become and the positive impact they wish to have on those around them.
A special part of the ceremony involved symbolic activities designed to encourage reflection and personal commitment. The girls participated in a bubble activity, where each student blew bubbles into the wind. This symbolised letting go of childhood and embracing the possibilities and growth that lie ahead as they move into the next stage of their lives.
The boys took part in a rock activity where they were asked to reflect on attitudes or behaviours from childhood that they were ready to leave behind. Each student wrote a childish behaviour or attitude on their rock before walking to the shoreline and throwing it into the ocean. This symbolic act represented letting go of those behaviours and making a commitment to continue developing into responsible and respectful young men.
The presence and support of parents and families made the ceremony particularly meaningful. One of the key messages of The Rite Journey is that the development of young people is a partnership between the school, the student, and their family. Your encouragement, guidance, and support are essential as students navigate this important stage of their lives.
We would like to sincerely thank all parents and families who attended and supported the event. Your presence helped create a powerful and memorable moment for our students.
The Calling and Departure Ceremony is only the beginning of the experiences and reflections that make up The Rite Journey throughout Year 9. We look forward to supporting and watching our students continue to develop into confident, capable, and compassionate young men and women.
Katie Frampton
Director of Student Services