Men play an important role in the development of children and in the development of our community. Studies have shown that the way fathers and significant men interact with children through the different phases of their lives has impact on children’s social and emotional development and their educational outcomes. The rough and tumble of a dad’s play in the early years can help children learn how to regulate their feelings and a dad’s influence extends into adolescence and young adulthood. Various studies have shown that children who have active and nurturing fathers are seen to have better verbal skills, intellectual functioning and academic functioning into adolescence. They are also “more likely to be emotionally secure, be confident to explore their surroundings and, as they grow older, have better social connections” (2011, Oliker).
Within our community men have played a significant role in growing and supporting the various activities of the College, including being significant males for each other’s children. Like mums, dads play a significant role in the development of children and community. This week we take the time to thank the men of this community for all they are and for what they have given. We pray that God would give them joy and equip them well for their important role of growing and nurturing young people across all dimensions of their lives, including the spiritual, within their families and the broader community.
(Oliker, D 2011, The Importance of Fathers, https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-long-reach-childhood/201106/the..., accessed 31 August 2017)
Over the weekend, Ms Sue Arahill, Mrs Rae Hall, Miss Michelle McMillan and Ms Alisha Janssen presented at the national Cultures of Thinking Conference held at Bialik College in Melbourne. The conference, held in conjunction with Harvard’s Project Zero team, provided the opportunity for educators from across Australia to come together and reflect on ways to enhance young people’s engagement, quality of thinking, understanding and dispositions to learning. The nurturing of healthy and effective habits of thinking has impact across all dimensions of life and is critical for thriving in a rapidly changing world. Each of the interactive workshops conducted by the Pacific team, which focused on sharing our journey in Growing Teachers As Researchers and Coaches, were oversubscribed and received with great enthusiasm. We congratulate and thank the team very capably led by Director of Teaching and Learning Ms Sue Arahill. The invitation to present at such a high profile conference is a testament to the great learning teachers across the College have been involved with over many years to shape a rich culture of thinking for our staff and students. 
It was a delight to attend the opening of the Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art 2017 exhibition at the University of the Sunshine Coast art gallery last Thursday night. We congratulate Jamie Beasley and Georgia Woods on having their work selected to be part of the exhibition. Exhibiting students were praised for showcasing their thinking on important life issues. Each of the artworks, including those produced by Jamie and Georgia, enabled the voice, thoughts and viewpoints of young people to be expressed powerfully. We congratulate both students and thank Mrs Denise McMahon and Dr Kym Rodgers for their inspiration of artistic talent within the College.
As the popularity of chess continues to grow at the College, in Term 4 students will be offered the opportunity to participate in chess lessons with Chess Mates. Following is a link to news feature that Channel 7 did on Chess Mates last year: 
Father’s Day Stall 
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