Food for the Soul

I am regularly reminded of how privileged we are to work with such talented students (and staff) at Pacific. The other day I was grateful to hear the Year 6 students and their music teachers, Mrs Helen Williams, Mr Steven Lake, Mrs Aleisha Tuaine and Mrs Jenna Woodforth playing a variety of musical instruments. It was brilliant to listen to the various pieces that were played, whilst observing the conductor energise each performer. I was suitably impressed by the commitment and sheer talent that all exhibited. Playing a musical instrument from a young age has been shown to increase cognitive ability through greater interaction between the left and right sides of the brain. There is an increase in a young person’s capacity to learn, memorise, hone fine motor skills and improve verbal and non-verbal reasoning (Stoklosa, 2016). If music is food for the soul, I can honestly say all our souls were full!

At assembly earlier this week, Middle and Senior College students and staff had the privilege of hearing from Olympic swimmer Tessa Wallace and our very own past student and current Youth Olympic Backstroke Champion, Kaylee McKeown (graduating class of 2018). The grounded nature of Kaylee as she addressed the College community was refreshing to witness and I hope that all students were inspired by her story and success. We thank both Kaylee and Tessa and wish them all the very best as they continue to represent our community and country with pride in future competitions.

I would like to remind all members of the community who drive themselves or loved ones to school each morning that the driving limit is 10km/h once entering the school gates. It is important that this limit is adhered to for the safety of all. I encourage all students to alight from the pathway side of the car they are in. Similarly, I ask all students who travel in buses to remain seated with their seatbelt fastened for the entire duration of their journey. This is a legal requirement for the safety of all passengers and for the driver to maintain their licence.

We wish all those travelling to Japan over the holidays a safe and enjoyable adventure. We thank Mrs Michiko Hauser, Mr Mark Hauser and Ms Marg Gunn for accompanying the tour group. I am confident all students will represent the College well and we look forward to hearing about their cultural experience on their return. I would also like to wish all Pacific community members a pleasant time with family and friends over the holiday period.

Mr Ben Ryan, Director of Students