Kindness

A warm welcome back to all students and their families as we commence the final term for the year. We especially welcome all new students and families to the College community; it is a delight to have you join us. I concluded our welcoming assembly for Middle and Senior College this week with a quote from the Dalai Lama; “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible”. Currently, we are in a period of learning where there is a greater emphasis, and indeed need, on problem solving, collaboration and creative thinking. Whilst not an exhaustive list, they have in various forums been described as 21st century skills, soft skills and essential skills for any learner, at any age. They are dispositions that can be learnt and refined. Underpinning these skills however, is the fundamental need for them to be based on kindness. At Pacific, our model of wellbeing is based on the synergy between Lutheran theology and Positive Psychology. Martin Seligman and other scientists in this field have determined that committing an act of kindness produces the single most reliable momentary increase in wellbeing of any exercise that has been tested. Taking care of our neighbour is a regular theme of the gospels. I encourage all members of the Pacific community to test this claim over the course of Term 4 and perhaps even share your feedback with us.

Year 6 Outback Tour

We wish the Year 6 students and staff travelling to Longreach this Sunday all the best as they embark on a very different outdoor education program. We thank Ms Kim Wood for her leadership of this program and the staff attending for their support. Whilst it is a departure from the usual Canberra experience, I am confident that all students will enjoy this unique opportunity to learn more about the history of the area, the beginnings of QANTAS and some of the early industries that grew from outback Queensland.

Year 11 Exams

We keep Year 11 students and their families in our prayers as they commence their examinations from this week. We acknowledge the dedication and drive of both staff and students in preparing for this concentrated period of assessment. Students are encouraged to continue reaching out to their subject teachers if they require individual assistance in the lead up to their examinations.

Year 12

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all Year 12 students for the manner in which they have handled this year. Their kindness and generosity of spirit across a range of domains has ensured a calm, positive and purposeful approach to their final year at school. I especially thank Mr Mark Hauser for his leadership of the senior students and the PHG teachers for their tireless support of Year 12 students and their families.

Mr Ben Ryan, Director of Students