Grade 9 Intersession: Finding Their Place in the Grove

For our Grade 9 students, Intersession was all about building connections, discovering their new community and finding their place in the Grove. Across five days, students explored their Houses, developed new skills, spent time outdoors and got to know the community beyond campus.

The week began with a focus on belonging. Through House tours and time in their House common rooms, students had the opportunity to get to know the spaces and people that will become an important part of their Lakefield experience. The week continued with sessions focused on healthy relationships, digital citizenship and cybersecurity, as well as guidance and an introduction to the Student Support Team.

Students also had plenty of opportunities to connect through games and activities, including group games on Lefevre Field and an introduction to O'Siem. These experiences encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, work together and begin building relationships across the Grade 9 class.

On Wednesday, the Grade 9s headed to Northcote for a full day of hands-on experiences before spending the afternoon at the waterfront. After dinner, students gathered around the campfire for s’mores before heading into their overnight campus experience. The evening continued with an outdoor movie at the waterfront, giving students plenty of time to relax, laugh and enjoy being together as a grade.

Thursday took students into Peterborough for a day at the Canadian Canoe Museum, followed by a trail walk, Frisbee golf and time in the Grove back on campus. The evening brought another chance to connect through a Grade 9 Goose Chase, with teams working together to complete challenges around campus.

The week wrapped up with a workshop led by Joel Hilchey, followed by an afternoon exploring Peterborough. Students took part in an One City Peterborough session and toured the city before ending the week with some friendly competition and a bowling trophy on the line.

From their first House tours to their final bowling challenge, Grade 9 Intersession gave students a chance to learn the people, places and experiences that make up their new community. More than a week of activities, it was a chance to build friendships, try new things and begin the year with a stronger sense of belonging.