I Think I Can

One of Pacific Way’s statements surrounds the notion of self-belief. In many ways, we are continually developing capacity and resilience in the way we view ourselves. This is not always easily done. Neuroplasticity is in an exciting space and more is being learnt about our ability to rewire our thinking and increase our personal resilience.

Renowned cognitive scientist, Nathan Wallis, asks us to view our brain as a garden. When we try something for the first time, we are developing a neural pathway through that garden. One that requires ongoing maintenance and cultivating. These pathways flourish when we are happy and settled and when cortisol is flowing, or scientifically when our frontal cortex is engaged and when our brain stem is quiet. Hereafter, they are reinforced by the message we send each other. Language plays a crucial role in the messages that are received by others, and interestingly, the story we tell ourselves.

Self-belief can be built by self-talk but not self-thought. Our brains are overloaded by thought but can be directed by out loud positive affirmations. Alternatively, these pathways can be eroded by negative talk from others and ourselves. The simple use of “yet” at the end of a sentence can have a significant impact on “under-construction” pathways in the brain. At our assembly, the image of “The Little Engine That Could” has been used to reinforce the self-talk of “I think I can” and “I knew I could”.

As parents, choosing situations and scenarios that promote self-belief allows for your children to be exposed to challenges that may not be entirely smooth, to begin with. A balanced mix of risk and resilience allows young people to exhibit their competencies through considered experiences. By encouraging routines such as carrying their own school bag, organising personal resources, or making their own bed, you are sending them a strong signal that we believe in you and in turn, helping them believe in themselves, a disposition that flows into their learning, relationships and connections.

Pacific as a Peace Place

If you open one of our Junior College diaries, in the first few pages there is an explanation of our College logo. Amongst the explanation is the College’s deep affinity with the ocean that we are so fortunate to live so close to, the Pacific. When Magellan named the ocean many centuries ago, it translated directly to ‘Peaceful’. After so long at sea, he was relieved to be in such calm and navigable waters.

The correlation between an ocean and a school may not be evident straight away, but when looking more closely, there are many similarities. There is enormous diversity within both, oceans and schools are ever-changing, and there is enormous energy within them. By acknowledging Pacific as a Peace Day recently, we recognise the part we all play in making the College a place of peace and tranquillity.

At assembly, we continually discuss what characterises a community of care and in turn, builds a place of peace. As we know, anything worth valuing is a sum of its parts. It takes support, recognising our mistakes and especially honesty and courage. It takes forgiveness, empathy, and understanding that we don’t always get it right the first time. It takes confidence and persistence, and it takes teamwork. But most importantly, creating a peaceful place is a shared understanding that we are all small pieces of the puzzle. Together through our thoughts, actions and words, we can form the construct of a brighter and calmer future.

Uniform and Expectations

I would like to take the opportunity to thank all students and parents for their support of the College uniform policy. How we manage our uniform expectations shows the community how we present and care for ourselves. A reminder that hair for all students should be always tied back if longer than the collar and that students should not be wearing hairstyles that bring undue attention to themselves. This includes “tracks” in the side of the head as well as haircuts shorter than a number two blade. Students have been reminded about expectations regarding hair and accessories this week. All hair bands should be in line with the colours of the College. Shoes and socks must match the uniform of the day.

Take care and God Bless,

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