Year 7 – It Takes a Village

So how do you define the Year 7 journey? And what are we hoping students carry with them by the end of it?

The First Step

The Year 7 journey often begins quietly, but with great significance.

In August, Year 6 students and their families gather on our King’s Campus for the Year 7 Welcome Evening – a first introduction to Middle School life at Pembroke. This annual event provides a chance for families to meet staff, connect with other parents and students, and get a taste of what’s to come.

For some students, this transition is even more significant, as they begin life as boarders – living away from home for the first time while adjusting to a new school environment.

What makes the evening particularly meaningful is the sense that this transition is shared. In the lead-up, the current Year 7 students write a message to welcome the incoming cohort:

‘Starting Year 7 is a big step. It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves – we did too.’

They also speak of camp, friendships and House spirit, but their message ultimately reassures that the Year 7 experience is shaped not only by staff, structures and activities, but by students themselves – helping one another to find their place.

From the next building block – Orientation Day – through to the early weeks of Term 1, each step is designed to build confidence and belonging.

Orientation Day introduces students to the campus through tours, icebreakers and short sessions with teachers. They begin to find classrooms and meet new peers. By the end of the day, what felt daunting already feels more familiar, supported by the sense that everyone is finding their way together.

Stepping in, Together

A defining feature of Year 7 at Pembroke is the strong sense of belonging built from the outset.

‘For many families, Year 7 is both exciting and a little daunting,’ says Head of Middle School, Lawrence Pascale. ‘It’s a bigger environment, and more than half the cohort is new.’

His advice is simple: 'Think about what you’re interested in and get involved. That’s how you find your tribe.’

Through House activities, co-curricular programs and clubs, students are encouraged to explore widely.

Endeavours such as Robotics, Debating and Chess challenge students intellectually, while Music ensembles, Film and Visual Art nurture creativity. Sport also plays a core role, offering both competition and connection. These opportunities help students discover new interests and form friendships across the year level.

A Foundation for What Comes Next

Having experienced Pembroke as a student, parent and staff member, Mr Pascale brings a unique perspective to the Year 7 experience.

‘It gives you a broader lens,’ he explains. ‘You understand not just what Year 7 looks like, but where students are heading.’

That long view is central to the philosophy of Year 7. It is not defined by grades alone, but by transition, growth and self-discovery.

‘If I had to describe it in three words,’ he says, ‘I’d say challenging, rewarding and connection. Year 7 is not about ATAR-thinking – it’s about becoming part of the place, finding out who you are, what you enjoy and how you fit in.’

The Power of Connection

A key element in fostering belonging is the Home Group model, led by Dean of Student Wellbeing, Rebecca Forrest.

In 2026, the School introduced smaller Home Groups for Year 7 students, with each group consisting of 12 to 14 students who will remain together with the same teacher through Years 7, 8 and 9. Home Group teachers will then ‘loop back’ to start the process again with a new Year 7 cohort.

‘What we wanted was to make Home Groups as small as possible, particularly at transition points,’ Ms Forrest explains. ‘But just as important is the continuity of care.’

This approach allows teachers to know their students deeply – socially, emotionally and academically, while building strong connections with families.

‘The feedback from staff has been incredible,’ she says. ‘Teachers are forming really strong connections with their group.’

For experienced staff, the impact has been immediate. As 7 Oats House Home Group Teacher Shane Claridge reflects: ‘I realised I was going to know far more about these students’ lives than with any Year 7 group I’ve worked with in the past 22 years. Every student feels like they belong and are part of something special in a group this size.’

Beyond the Classroom

Some of the most memorable moments of Year 7 happen beyond the classroom.

The Year 7 Camp, held early in the year, is a highlight of the Middle School experience. Set at Old Watulunga on the Finniss River, the three-day program combines outdoor adventure with team-building challenges. Activities such as kayaking, raft-building, cultural experiences and garden-to-plate cookery foster resilience, independence and collaboration.

Away from the familiar, students support one another, step out of their comfort zones and build confidence. For many, it is the moment they begin to feel truly part of the Year 7 community.

Finding Their Place

By the end of Year 7, the transformation is often striking.

‘I hope students feel like they’re part of the place,’ Mr Pascale reflects. ‘That they’re in the school they want to be in – that they belong. And that they feel like they have a voice, both with staff and among their peers.’

It is, as the 2025 cohort expressed it, about finding your place – and helping others to do the same. This sense of belonging – of being known, connected and confident – defines a successful Year 7 experience.

The Village

As the adage reminds us, it takes a village to raise a child.

At Pembroke, that village is strong – a network of staff, peers and parents working together to support each student’s journey.

It is this collective effort that ensures Year 7 is not simply a transition, but a foundation – one that allows every student to move forward with confidence into the years ahead.