The first day of the new academic year was a chance to bring together Trinity College School’s Grade 12 students. Members of the “class of 2025” were on campus on Tuesday, September 3rd to take part in a variety of activities aimed at embracing their leadership roles as graduating students, as well as plenty of time for catching up with friends after the summer break!
In the days leading up to Tuesday, campus activity began to buzz with the arrival of our “First Through The Gates” participants. These new boarding students took the opportunity to come to TCS a few days early to participate in orientation activities, getting to know their surroundings, meeting staff and making new friends as they took part in excursions.
As well, incoming student leaders (school prefects, house prefects and house captains) participated in training programs in recent days, in preparation for the year ahead.
“This is one of the best times of the year – receiving returning students on campus and greeting brand-new student community members,” said Head of Senior School – Academics & Student Life, Kristopher Churchill. “Opening days let us set the stage for learning – building professional relationships with our students is foundational to the teaching and learning to follow.” One key factor in this will be a renewed emphasis on keeping mobile devices “out of sight and sound” so that students and staff alike can be “in the moment” with one another.
Mr. Churchill went on to encourage all students to embrace the start of a new school year. “September also holds an opportunity for students to reinvent themselves – to try a new sport, audition for a part in a play, explore a new service opportunity, or befriend someone experiencing TCS for the first time. The opportunities are vast, making the early days of anticipation exciting.”
On Tuesday morning, Grade 12 boarders moved back onto campus, followed by a lunch for all Grade 12 students. Then the afternoon included guidance and house meetings as well as time for planning out activities for “Ruckus” (all student fun & games), being held later in the week.
“We are thrilled to welcome students back to campus!” said Jennifer Paziuk, head of Senior School – student support. “This is always a special time of year, filled with the energy and excitement of new beginnings and rekindled connections. Our student leaders and graduating class have gone above and beyond in planning engaging and inclusive events and activities designed to help everyone feel welcome and foster a sense of belonging. Working alongside passionate staff, our students’ commitment to nurturing a compassionate, kind and supportive community is admirable and bodes well for a wonderful year full of learning, growth and fun!”
Over at Boulden House, our new Junior School students had the chance to drop in and get familiar with their classroom and locker locations prior to the first day of classes on Wednesday.
In the evening, graduating students attended a special chapel service, led by Head of Trinity College School Stuart Grainger and TCS Chaplain Rev. Deb Wilson, as well as the head school prefects: Mahi Nanda and Johnny Brown. Then, the students enjoyed a “Summer Soiree” featuring a social in Cirne Commons and a special dinner in Osler Hall.
It was a great start to the 2024-2025 academic year, which is sure to be filled with many milestones for our graduating students!
