I applied to become a Year 11 Buddy at the end of Year 10. I was interested in the role because I recognised the importance of building relationships with students in younger years within the school community.  I think this is a special quality of Blackheath High and was something that I certainly appreciated when I was in Year 7. I was very keen to help new students as much as I could with their transition into Senior School and with four years of experience under my belt, I wanted to share some of the things that I have learned about school life and I hoped that they would learn from the many mistakes that I made while in the lower school. Seeing familiar faces in the corridor at school, as I did with my Year 11 Buddy, is very reassuring and I was eager to ensure that starting a new school was as comfortable as possible for our new students. 

I first met my buddy group when they were in Year 6 and many of them were understandably shy. There was a combination of excitement and nervousness about their imminent transition to Senior School. There were lots of familiar faces from the Junior School, as well as many new girls, who were quickly welcomed into the group. I have really enjoyed seeing them form new friendships and interests since starting Senior School. We have enjoyed many interesting conversations at events including the Year 7 Tea Party and the Buddy Breakfast, as well as in the library and generally around school. It is lovely to see their enthusiasm and optimism and I have enjoyed helping them by answering their questions and talking through any concerns they may have. Overall, it has been a very enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Emerald McLaughlin Y11