At a Glance

Under the Pacific Umbrella

The beauty of split assemblies allows us to cater our messages for a specific audience. At last week’s P-2 assembly, Mrs Ridley and Mrs Hogan explored the concept of inclusion under our “Pacific Umbrella”. The story that children were shown involved an umbrella that everyone was welcomed to shelter under. There was room for everyone, every shape and size, every emotion and behaviour. To further expand on this message, a very special group of people were invited to be part of the umbrella, further embedding a message of inclusion. Everyone possesses an innate dignity and has the right to be included regardless of the situation. The students were very vocal in their conviction that everyone has a right to be part of our umbrella and be accepted for what they are. As part of our Pacific Way, we embrace diversity and celebrate the God-given gifts of others in our lives.

Restorative Approaches

A crucial part of the Pastoral Care process at Pacific is the attention and faith given to supporting students through restorative frameworks. It is the purpose of restorative practice to build or mend relationships that are worthy of maintaining. Restorative circles can take many forms and serve many purposes. Restorative conferencing can be a process that addresses wrongdoing and conflict and can seek to repair damage to relationships.

The implementation of Circle Time is an important part of our framework. Circle Time is a practical way to skill young people to listen with understanding, tune into feelings and begin to see the world from others’ viewpoints. These Circle Times are intentionally timetabled into classes to build and maintain relationships and encourage a sense of belonging. The ‘grab and go’ Circle Time kit covers such topics as dealing with arguments, what we need when we are hurt and blaming versus fixing. The skills built within this environment aim to build our students' capacity further to navigate the sometimes-confusing world of interpersonal relationships.

At times, the relationships and actions of others can impact the wellbeing of others. At Pacific, we use these events as learning experiences and give voice to all sides to encourage a holistic view of what has transpired.

As a College, we encourage our students to be proactive about such incidents whilst at school. Circle Times and restorative conferencing provide an avenue for children to articulate any potential issues that may have occurred. Our hope as a College is that we are encouraging agency within our students to speak up in a safe and supportive environment and undertake the due process to restore the relationships that may have suffered harm. These restorative processes can be the beginning of a journey to repair harm, and at times, require continuous monitoring. Communication is vital, and I encourage you to keep in close contact with your child’s classroom teacher should you need to give further information or need clarification on wellbeing matters.

SCHIPA Writing Workshop

Last week, five students across Years Five and Six were fortunate enough to attend a writing workshop facilitated by Dr Cameron Seltzer. Students across the Sunshine Coast Independent Network were led by Dr Seltzer in developing suspense and including specific details to make any story more believable. Our Pacific Way statement this week surrounds taking risks in our learning and on Junior Assembly this week, Olive, Vivienne, and Edie, along with Mrs Zweck, shared their experience of going into an unfamiliar setting, interacting with others and exploring new ways in how risk-taking gives depth to our learning. We hope to publish some elements of this experience in the coming weeks.

Take care and God bless.

Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Students P-5