Community in Action: Building Character, Connection and Purpose Across Somerset

Across Somerset, students are continuing to demonstrate the values that strengthen our community each day, through leadership, service, personal growth, and meaningful action. This week, Assistant Head of Junior School (Years 3–6), Nick Scott, and Director of Students, Josh Di Bella, share highlights from across the College.

Junior School Update - By Nick Scott | Assistant Head of Junior School (Years 3–6)

Valuing Community Through Action
This fortnight in the Junior School, our focus has been on Valuing Community and our Junior School Houses have embraced this through authentic partnerships with local organisations.

Rather than simply fundraising, students are engaging in real-world action, allowing them to experience first-hand the impact of their efforts on people, animals, and the environment.

Franklin — Caring for Animals with AWLQ
Franklin students have dedicated lunchtime sessions to creating toys for animals at the AWLQ shelter and are leading a collection drive for blankets, towels, sheets, and pet food. Students will sort, box, and deliver donations, seeing the direct impact of their efforts on animal wellbeing.

Veivers — Protecting Wildlife with Watergum
Through the Hollow Homes programme, Veivers students have explored the importance of natural tree hollows for wildlife and are creating possum dreys to support safe habitats for native species.

Laver — Regenerating Local Environments with Regen
Laver students are learning to care for native seedlings in the Mini Farm greenhouse before planting them in restoration areas, contributing directly to environmental regeneration.

Andrews — Supporting Community Wellbeing with Lifeline
Andrews House is partnering with Lifeline to support mental health services through a clothing drive while helping students develop empathy and understanding of community support services.

Starkey — Spreading Joy Through Giving
Later this year, Starkey House will lead a toy drive to support children in need during the holiday season, reinforcing generosity and service through hands-on involvement.

These experiences reflect the PYP emphasis on agency and action, empowering students to take ownership of their learning and contribute meaningfully to their wider community. Through authentic connection and purposeful action, we continue to nurture compassionate, capable learners who understand their ability to make a difference.

We also extend our sincere thanks to the Junior School House Convenors, Mrs Nat Nugent (Andrews), Mrs Kate Grigg (Franklin), Mr Shane Cowling (Laver), Mr Andrew Halloran (Starkey), and Miss Kayla McNaught (Veivers), for establishing and leading these valuable initiatives.

Senior School Update - By Josh Di Bella | Director of Students

I am delighted to have joined Somerset College as the Director of Students this term and it has been wonderful to become part of such a vibrant and thriving community.

Over recent weeks, I have greatly enjoyed getting to know so many students across the College and have already witnessed a strong sense of connection, community and cohesiveness within each cohort. Successful and nurturing communities flourish through teamwork, and it has been pleasing to see so many examples of students supporting one another throughout the term.

Character and Conscience Programme
This term, our Year 7 and Year 11 students are participating in a Character and Conscience programme that places the core values of teamwork, respect and engagement at the forefront of all we do.

I am excited to see this programme come to life next week through activities centred around exercise, mindfulness and nutrition. I would particularly like to thank Mrs Wright and our Year 11 students for their leadership and organisation. This promises to be a valuable experience for all involved.

Supporting Success Together
Our Year 12 students have been attending weekly Thursday evening study sessions and dinner in impressive numbers. Each week, more than 50 students have participated, working alongside teachers who have generously given their time to support students in preparation for upcoming assessments.

Thank you to Mrs Sauer and all staff involved for their ongoing commitment and dedication.

Meanwhile, our Year 10 students have continued to work diligently on their Personal Projects as they reach the culmination of their MYP journey, while Year 8 students have been working conscientiously in preparation for upcoming assessments and examinations.

It was also wonderful to hear from our Year 9 students during Chapel this week as they reflected on their recent camp experiences and the personal growth that emerged through challenge and shared experience.

Looking Ahead
Outside the classroom, we are excited to have 16 registered teams preparing to participate in the Kokoda Challenge in 2026 — a fantastic reflection of the commitment, resilience and teamwork demonstrated by our students.

As a College, we are also continuing to focus on the importance of uniform and presenting ourselves as a team. Taking pride in wearing the College uniform reflects both our individual standards and our collective identity as a community, while reinforcing our readiness for the opportunities and experiences ahead.