Daisy
Finding confidence, connection and her place
For Daisy, OLSH College quickly became a place where she feels known, supported and connected. The transition process began well before her first days of Year 7, as girls are welcomed through a carefully designed transition process that includes early opportunities to build relationships, connection as a year level and familiarity with the College. During ‘O Week’ all girls are encouraged to embrace College life, shaped by strong guidance, clear routines and a focus on wellbeing, helping each student feel comfortable, included and ready to take part in College life.
As Daisy moved through her first year and into Year 8, these foundations have continued to support her learning, relationships and involvement in the community. With opportunities to take part in music and other areas of interest, she has found ways to express herself, connect with others and make the most of what OLSH College offers.
Daisy shares her experience of starting at OLSH College and the journey that has followed:
Q: Before you started Year 7, how were you feeling about starting secondary school?
A: “Truthfully, I wasn’t feeling that great. I was the only person from my school coming to OLSH College and I was sure I would hate it and wouldn’t survive a week. But I did, I survived my first year and now I’m really, really happy.”
Q: How did the transition process help you find your place and support you when you started at OLSH College?
A: “The transition days, O Week activities and tours got me familiar with the layout of the school, how the schedule works and the lessons and their content. Now I’m super confident with how my day works. Camp also helped, because up to that point I had only one friend and on camp I met new people that I liked talking to and now I have an even bigger group of close friends.”
Q: Was there a subject or class that stood out to you when you first started—either because it was new or different?
A: “Digital Technology subjects were different. I liked learning things about devices, networks and Photoshop in Digital Literacy. Also, coding and programming in Digital Innovation. They were new and there were also subjects I liked more like drama and music.”
“Being at an all-girls school, I get to talk openly about my interests, personal matters and growing up, with other girls that share the same experiences. Being part of such a wonderful and welcoming community is truly amazing.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How does OLSH College support students starting Year 7?
We know that starting high school is an exciting milestone and can also bring some uncertainty. Through our transition program, students have opportunities to meet future classmates and teachers, explore the College environment, and learn more about life at OLSH College before they begin Year 7. This process helps students become familiar with their new learning spaces, build connections, and develop a strong sense of belonging within the OLSH College community.
Why are there multiple transition activities throughout the year?
We recognise that a successful transition is not a single event, but a process that occurs over time. Our transition process is designed to provide multiple opportunities for students to become acquainted with the College community, develop friendships, and feel comfortable in their new environment.
Does OLSH College offer Out of School Hours Care?
Students can attend supervised Academic Support sessions after school to complete homework and study tasks. Academic Support is available at the following times:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 3:30 PM–4:30 PM
Tuesday: 2:30 PM–3:30 PM
Students attending after-school Academic Support are asked to ensure their parent/guardian is aware of their attendance. Other after-school activities vary throughout the year and may include sports training, or rehearsals.
How early should I enrol my daughter?
We recommend enrolling your daughter at least 18 months before she starts Year 7. Early enrolment ensures students can take part in the full transition program and receive important information leading up to their commencement at OLSH College.
Will my daughter have the opportunity to try a variety of subjects?
At OLSH College, we believe all girls should have the opportunity to experience a rich and diverse curriculum before making decisions about future subject choices and pathways. As part of our Foundation Curriculum, students study a semester of each elective subject. This allows girls to explore new areas of learning, discover strengths and interests they may not have previously recognised, and build confidence in a wide range of skills and experiences.
How does OLSH College support student wellbeing?
Student wellbeing and pastoral care are at the heart of life at OLSH College. Every student belongs to a Home Class and is supported by a dedicated Home Class Teacher who gets to know her as an individual. Supported by our Student Wellbeing Team and College Counsellors, girls are encouraged to build resilience, develop positive relationships, and feel a strong sense of belonging within the OLSH community.
