One of the most encouraging things when I walk around the school grounds is how many students say hello or want to engage with me. I think it speaks to the depth and warmth of the learning partnerships we seek to foster – that students feel safe and comfortable engaging with staff, even the Principal.
This morning before school, I was invited to a handball game in the primary quadrangle. The students, in their sympathy for the old bloke (bless them), felt that I should be given a second chance, but I was happy to take my medicine and skulk to the bottom of the court when my old bones couldn’t bend far enough for a return volley.
These interactions may seem routine, but they signify something deeper. Education is built on relationships – and nurtured through mutual trust. Students are more likely to flourish when they know that the adults around them genuinely care about them and have their best interests at heart.
We endeavour as a school to put our students and their learning and development at the forefront of our structures, programs, and our planning. And we look to the master teacher Jesus as our example and inspiration. Jesus did not simply impart knowledge; he invested in people, challenged them graciously and in all things pointed them to the Father.
May our Father in Heaven continue to guide us all – staff, students and parents – so that our school remains a community where every person is known, valued and encouraged to grow, and where our relationships reflect the love of Christ.
Philippians 2:1-2 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
Mr David Stonestreet
Principal