2026 Year 7 Orientation
Welcoming Our Newest Senior School Students
This term marked an exciting milestone as Canterbury College welcomed both our current Year 6 students and families joining us for the first time to our Year 7 2026 Orientation Days. These sessions are a key part of our transition program, supporting students to begin their Senior School journey with confidence and connection.
Across several engaging days, students stepped into their new House communities, completed short diagnostic assessments, enjoyed team-building activities, and experienced the rhythm and expectations of Senior School life.
A Warm Introduction to Senior School Life
Orientation Day 1 centred on belonging. Students participated in House-based activities, met key staff, and began forming relationships that will support them into 2026. Parents also attended a valuable session with the Rites of Passage Institute, exploring ways to guide their children through this important stage of development.
Orientation Day 2 focused on academic readiness, with literacy and numeracy tasks followed by one of the most anticipated parts of the transition experience – the Senior School Expo.
A Showcase of Canterbury’s Vibrant Senior School
The Senior School Expo continues to be a standout moment in the program. Held in the Sports Hall, it brings together displays from Academics, Sport, The Arts, Service, Leadership and Care Central.
A highlight each year is the involvement of our current Senior School students. Their enthusiasm, guidance and pride in their College provide an authentic, hands-on introduction to the opportunities ahead for our incoming Year 7s.
Belonging Through the House System
A significant part of entering Year 7 at Canterbury is stepping fully into the College’s House system; one of the most supportive and identity-building elements of Senior School life. Students remain with the same Head of House, Assistant Head of House and Form Teacher from Years 7-12, forming long-term relationships based on genuine care and guidance.
Throughout the orientations, it was inspiring to see the depth of House spirit on display as our current students welcomed the new cohort, shared experiences and showcased the interhouse activities, Form Class connections and leadership pathways that shape daily life.
This structure – supported by small, multi-year Form Groups and wellbeing-focused routines – quickly helps new students feel part of something bigger as they settle into Senior School.
Looking Ahead
These Orientation Days are just the beginning of each student’s Senior School journey. Early in 2026, families will come together again for their House Liturgy and Breakfast, another important step in building community.
We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2031 back to campus next year as they begin this exciting new chapter in their Canterbury journey.