Confidence Doesn’t Start in Year 7: How Leading Sydney Girls School Builds Self-Belief from Day One
Research continues to show that many girls experience a dip in confidence during the middle years of schooling, a period that can shape wellbeing, resilience and self-belief well into adolescence.
Recent national insights from the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) 2025 State of Australia’s Children Report highlight that young people aged 8–14 report decreased feelings of connectedness and increased stress related to transitions and workload.
Educators note this period often coincides with growing self-doubt and hesitation to step into leadership or new opportunities, particularly as students move from primary to secondary school. Without early support, these dips in confidence can influence academic engagement, willingness to participate, and overall sense of belonging during their secondary years.
At Loreto Normanhurst, entry from Year 5 has long been part of their commitment to supporting girls during this critical stage. By starting earlier, students have more time to build self-confidence, resilience, and leadership skills before high school begins. This early transition allows students to adapt, explore their interests, and strengthen the skills and self-belief that carry them into adolescence.
“At Loreto Normanhurst, starting in Year 5 gives students a real advantage,” says Maree Board, Head of Primary. “From day one, girls begin developing maturity and self-belief. They quickly grasp new expectations, engage fully in learning, and by the end of their two years in Primary, they are ready to step confidently into Year 7 and support incoming students.”
And it’s proving successful. Students who began in Year 5 report significant growth in confidence by the time they reach Year 7. Sophie, now in Year 6, says: “Starting in Year 5 has made a big impact on my confidence. The Loreto Normanhurst community is so strong and supportive—I can just be myself and strive to do my best in class and extra-curricular opportunities.”
Sienna, also in Year 6, adds: “Loreto Normanhurst has made me feel so welcome. I’ve participated in extra-curricular activities that have helped me meet new people and strengthen my connections. Public speaking has definitely helped me feel more confident speaking in front of people. Starting in Year 5 has encouraged me to try new things and boosted my confidence a lot.”
Secondary students notice the benefits of early entry too. Reflecting on her primary years, Lucille, Year 7, says: “I’ve gone out of my comfort zone and tried new things that have made me more resilient, confident, and ambitious.”
Liliana, also Year 7, adds: “Even in primary, I was shamelessly myself. Loreto Normanhurst has taught me that not liking ‘trendy’ things doesn’t make me uncool.”
Year 8 student Audrey explains: “Joining Loreto Normanhurst in Year 5 gave me a head start. I already knew the routines and had connections across year levels, which made it easier to try new things and lead confidently.”
The school’s single-sex environment further supports this growth. “In a girls-only classroom, every student is heard,” Maree explains. “Girls feel safe to speak up, take risks, and embrace opportunities to lead. Friendships and support networks form naturally, helping students thrive academically and personally. At this critical stage, feeling a sense of belonging allows girls to develop self-confidence and step into leadership roles with assurance.”
Now in senior leadership roles, students who began at Loreto in Year 5 say the early transition was foundational to who they’ve become.
School Captain Mia, says her confidence was shaped by culture, not titles.
“Since joining Loreto in Year 5, my confidence has been shaped not by what I’ve done, but by the culture I’ve grown up in. At Loreto, confidence is never about self-importance, it’s about lifting your gaze, seeing beyond yourself, and recognising the responsibility you hold within a community built on justice.”
She adds that beginning early gave her time to absorb what leadership looked like in action.
“From the moment I arrived in Year 5, I watched older girls speak with conviction, advocate passionately, and lead with tenacity. So when I eventually found myself in leadership roles, speaking up felt like something I had been preparing for since the day I arrived.”
For Social Justice Captain Monique, early exposure to opportunity was key.
“Since joining Loreto in Year 5, I have had the chance to explore a wide range of opportunities that have shaped who I am today. From the arts to public speaking, social advocacy, STEM immersions, and leadership, I was never pressured to choose just one path. I have never been told I am “too loud” or “too much” here; instead, I have always been supported by teachers and students alike in making real, tangible change.”
For Music Captain Mia, confidence grew through creativity, leadership and belonging.
“In Primary, I was very shy, but I found my comfort in music and sport. We would have lunch time performances that I remember taking part in and it gave me such joy and confidence. This confidence boosted me into putting my name forward for House Leader. As music gave me confidence, I did a rap as my speech which was something authentic to me.”
She says knowing the school before high school made all the difference.
“Even though Year 7 can be a hard year for all, knowing faces, values and expectations helped me speak up and try new things, even if I was scared.”
Starting Year 5 also ensures a smoother transition into high school. Students become familiar with school routines, specialist lessons, and the high school layout, giving them reassurance and readiness for Year 7. Participation in a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including sports, clubs, and public speaking, helps girls explore interests, collaborate with peers across year levels, and form lasting friendships.
Loreto Normanhurst’s award-winning holistic model of education—integrating faith, academic excellence, community, and extra-curricular opportunities—ensures every student receives personalised attention and thrives in a supportive single-sex environment. Strong relationships with teachers and peers nurture self-belief and resilience, empowering girls to take on challenges, speak up, and develop leadership qualities from day one.
By beginning in Year 5, Loreto Normanhurst provides the confidence, skills, and tailored support girls need to embrace new experiences, lead with assurance, and flourish academically, socially, and personally.
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About Loreto Normanhurst
Loreto Normanhurst is an independent Catholic, day and boarding school for girls in Years 5 - 12.
It offers an award-winning model of learning, an extensive extra-curricular program, a modern faith, and a strong sense of community.
With 128 years of excellence in educating girls, Loreto Normanhurst graduates are independent, articulate, compassionate women who are seekers of truth and doers of justice.
Sarah Finn
