Grade 8s in Action

25 August 2025Ms Kim Waugh & Ms Amanda Ramundi

What a remarkable year for our Grade 8 students. Whether learning how to execute a wet exit, tackling new challenges in the classroom, or performing on stage, these twenty-five young people embraced the opportunities and expectations of becoming a Brentonian. From their first days on campus in September, they were immersed in the tripartite program. They began building the habits, resilience, and adaptability that will serve them well in the years ahead.

One of the year’s highlights was the Grade 8 Musical. Students brought Honk! Jr to life with a memorable final performance that earned a standing ovation. For many, stepping on stage was well outside their comfort zone – but their dedication to the process was evident. This year also marked the second time a Grade 8 class participated in Airband, and they opened the show with an excellent performance that set the tone for the evening. Throughout the year, they explored and strengthened their artistic voice through visual art, guitar, and ukulele.

Midway through the year, students embarked on an overnight Winterlude trip to Mount Washington. On the first day, they chose their own adventure: downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. The second day was a shared class experience: snowshoeing through the alpine landscape, participating in introductory avalanche training, and finishing with a spirited game of capture the flag in the snow. The trip was a perfect blend of outdoor education, personal choice, and community connection.

Beyond the arts and outdoor education, students challenged themselves in the PE and Sports programs and had the chance to participate in rowing. Hands-on experiences in science labs, inquiry-based learning, coding, sewing, and cooking also formed key parts of their academic journey. The year began with a three-day outdoor orientation designed to foster collaboration and connection. Students built shelters, learned fire-starting techniques, and explored the campus environment.

There were, of course, difficult moments: assignments to complete, deadlines to meet, and social dynamics to navigate. But those moments were just as formative as the highlights. This group steadily took on the challenge of developing the mindset, work ethic, and self-awareness that defines a Brentwood education.

The year concluded with a two-day camping and biking trip that served as a fitting celebration of all they had accomplished. With backpacks on and bikes ready, students ventured into the outdoors once more – laughing, learning, and making memories to carry forward.

Congratulations to the 2024–25 Grade 8 cohort as they take the next step in their Brentwood journey.

Ms Amanda Ramundi & Ms Kim Waugh

Where Students Choose To Be