Coming Together

Held every Monday, our assemblies provide a time to meet and showcase the learning and celebration in and around the College. Every second week we will meet as a Foundation College (Prep-Year 2) and two weeks after as a Junior College (Year 3-5). We meet as Prep-Year 5 every alternate week. We can tailor our pastoral focus on learning and celebrations by meeting in smaller groups and adjusting our language and direction accordingly.

At our last P-2 assembly, Mrs Ridley and Mrs Hogan shared a beautiful children’s book, “Being you” by Peter H. Reynolds. The story focuses on the things that make us distinctive. Being curious, being different, and being persistent are themes encouraged by the book that reinforces that being the way you are is just fine. In a world where it is easy to be reminded of what you are not, it is lovely to be reminded of all the possibilities that lie within our grasp.

In assembly this week, as a Junior College, we began to better understand the language around the “We” of the Pacific Way.” For anyone to flourish, the road ahead needs to be precise. Terms such as “tolerance” and “celebrating other’s gifts” serve as a reminder that we all have specific gifts and other competencies add value to our own rather than diminish.

One of the key themes in the Pacific Way is tolerance. The tolerance to understand that things don’t always go to plan and sometimes through no fault of our own is an important lesson to learn. Developing a tolerance for our own faults is again another valuable learning opportunity. Everyone makes mistakes, and mistakes provide valuable opportunities to reflect on where we may do things differently in the future. Elements of our You Can Do It Program explore the notion of ‘catastrophising’ and making minor missteps as something which can sometimes become all-encompassing.

The first step in forgiveness is forgiving ourselves. By acknowledging and understanding that we make mistakes because we are human, we permit ourselves to be honest with ourselves and move on to keep improving as learners and as people.

Service

I want to thank the many volunteers amongst the Year 5 Gawun Leaders who gave up their own time to be part of the Open Day Tours on the College Open Day. The motivation of our student leaders was outstanding and joining students from the Middle and Senior Colleges provided an added perspective on the opportunities and learning occurring within the Junior College. The feedback on the day from families new to the College was exemplary, and we thank all students for their involvement in showcasing our College to the community.

Year 4 Outdoor Education

Earlier this term, I enjoyed attending the Year 4 Outdoor Education Experience at QCCC in Mapleton. The planning and coordination between learning experiences and curriculum were outstanding, and I would like to thank Mr Paul Brace for his coordination and oversight. Mr Brace was ably supported by Mrs Sarah Atkinson, Mr Joe Doran, Mrs Amanda Empson, Mrs Sharon Middleton and Mr Robert Belchamber.  It is an intentional move to increase the days away in Year 4, and it was noticeable how much the students grew during their time away. At times, the elements were challenging, but they only added a unique flavour to the experience. A powerful part of any Outdoor Education Program at the College contributes to their camp journal, which will ultimately be presented to them on their exit from the College in Year 12. The students, reflections, and documentation provide a snapshot of their experiences throughout their time at the college.

Uniform

As the weather cools, we ask parents and students for their support of the uniform policy by combining the correct jumper with the appropriate uniform. Our conversation regarding care for self surrounds how we present ourselves to the community. Our uniform is an observable and easily recognisable sign for others to read the story we want to tell in so many ways. We also ask that jumpers are clearly labeled so they may be returned to their owners quickly, as they are often discarded as the weather warms during the day. We thank you in advance for your support.

Take care, and God bless,

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