Starting Senior School
An Exciting New Chapter in the Iona Journey
Moving from Junior to Senior School is more than just a change in campus - it is a celebration of growth and responsibility.
Throughout their in Junior School, students have many chances to visit the Senior School for lessons, events and excursions. These experiences help them become familiar with the facilities, meet staff and feel at home well before their first day in Year 7. Whole College events - where parents, grandparents and students come together - help nurture a strong sense of connection across our community.
Senior School students also play an important role in supporting the Junior School. Whether they are coaching JIGSSA sports teams, lending a hand at the Junior School Disco or assisting in learning areas like Mathematics, Religious Education, Physical Education Studies or Children, Family and the Community, these connection build friendships, leadership skills and a deep sense of Iona spirit.
By the end of Year 6, students are ready to confidently take their next step, supported by familiar faces and a strong foundation of belonging.
Welcoming Our New Year 7 Ionians
Starting a secondary school is a big moment - not just for students, but for families too. That is why our Year 7 Transition Program begins the moment your child is full enrolled.
From tailored events to regular updates, our aim is to ensure every student fees seen, supported and excited about what lied ahead.
Our admissions team stays in close contact, and The Iona Insight - our bi-annual publication - keeps families informed and engaged in College life.
The Year 7 Transition Program includes a series of welcoming events designed to build friendships, confidence and a sense of belonging well before the school year begins.
There are several key events that make up the Year 7 Transition Program at Iona:
1. Parent Information Evening
The Important Parent/College Partnership
Prior to commencement, we welcome the parents of all our new Year 7 students to the Year 7 Parent Information Evening. This wonderful occasion, hosted by the College Principal, provides an opportunity for parents to learn about what to expect when their daughters commence, and how as a community we can all be supported. It is a truly wonderful evening of discussion that marks the beginning of the close partnership between parents and the College.
2. Orientation Day
Building a Sense of Belonging
Soon after the Parent Information Evening, we welcome all incoming Year 7 students to Orientation Day. This day, hosted by the Deputy Principal of Wellbeing, has a strong emphasis on friendship and developing a sense of belonging, as we recognise this is paramount in the hearts and minds of our incoming students. Students, from a wide range of feeder schools, sample the exciting opportunities they will be faced with along their Senior School journey. Group activities are focused on fun and are arranged over the various learning areas. New friendships certainly begin to blossom on Orientation Day.
3. Peer Support Day
Forming Friendships as Ionians
In early December, we again welcome our future Year 7 cohort to the College for Peer Support Day. This is an exciting day all about finding their place in Iona’s amazing House system!
Prior to attending, students are placed into their House. On the day they will be guided by their Head of Year, and will meet fellow house members as well as their Year 11 Peer Support Leader, who will play a very important role as a friend and mentor. Together, students share lunch and participate in getting-to-know-you activities. Strong bonds form by the end of the day with our newest students beginning to feel even more confident and excited about their Iona-journey ahead.
4. Transition Activities
A Seamless Transition
In addition to Orientation Day and Peer Support Day, there are also several specialised Transition Activities created specifically for our incoming Year 7 students. These activities are spread over the course of months, and into the January school holidays prior to commencement, to help students familiarise themselves with exciting Senior School courses and provide them with an extra opportunity to bond with their future classmates. Transition Activities can range from Dance and Music activities, to Sport and STEM.
