Story Shapers
Story Shapers
Adults often surprise themselves when they find themselves doing or saying exactly what their mother, father or grandparents had said or done. People are constantly absorbing and shaping their story from those around them. Family members and members of their various communities from school communities, sporting and surf clubs, cultural groups and Church groups have a powerful influence on the shaping of young people’s thinking as well as influencing other members of their community. Growing up in a family or community where people respect and serve others, show resilience, hospitality, forgiveness, courage, compassion, flexibility or gratitude often sees these characteristics becoming part of the story woven by the young person in their life.
On a daily basis, I interact with people from our community who are amazing story shapers as parents, grandparents, students and staff. Actions large and small shape who we are. Small kindnesses not only make a difference but can be remembered for years and encourage us to be more fully human. The much-quoted reflection by Jesus that the greatest commandments were to “Love God with all your heart” and to “Love your neighbor as yourself” speak volumes into today’s world.
Principal's Log
It has been another amazing week where young people, staff and parents have continued to shape and be part of rich experiences. Last week’s basketball finals were a fitting end to a very successful season with four teams, the Intermediate A Girls, Intermediate B Girls, the Intermediate B Boys and the Intermediate C Girls all reaching the grand finals. The Intermediate Girls A final was a very tightly contested game played with great sportsmanship, skill and determination from both sides. In the final quarter, the teams swapped the lead with the result being tied at the end of full time and then Unity winning in an exciting extra time with a successful three point shot from way down the court as the final bell went. Congratulations to everyone who has been part of a very successful season, to our teams that made finals and grand finals and particularly the Intermediate C girls who were premiers. Thank you to our coaches of Bailey Pointon, Georgie Snelling, Andrea Prinsloo, Caitlin O’Keefe, Mr Damien Evans, Mr Scott Crompton, Mrs Tanya Graves, Mr Andrew Block, Mr Bartlett and Mr Doran and in particular to our Head of Basketball Mr Mark Hauser for his tremendous passion and commitment.
Last Friday evening we enjoyed the Art exhibition which showcased the creative talent of our P-12 students. The variety of styles and the connection of ideas exhibited in the pieces highlighted the depth and breadth of experience provided to students through their learning of art in the College. Congratulations to all students and particularly teachers Mrs Denise McMahon and Mrs Kym Rodgers supported by Mrs Rowena Marshall for the staging of another highly successful showcase of student talent and creative thinking.
It was amazing to hear of the number of staff and students involved in the Disabled Surfer’s Association event on Saturday. Thank you to students and staff who provided the opportunity for members of the association to enjoy time in the Ocean doing something they love. Shapers at work!
Congratulations to our primary robotics teams who performed well in the Cooran State School Robotics Primary School Technology Challenge and particularly the girls team of Year 4 and 6 students of Maddie Clues, Tamsyn Doyle and Kelsey Doyle who won the overall champions award. It was great to hear that they also took out the most “most gracious team award” for their encouragement of others. Thank you to Mrs Janine Stone who is providing great opportunities and leadership for our robotics teams.
I have been invited by the LEQ Director of Innovation and Technologies Mr Derek Bartels to participate in the HundrED Innovation Summit in Helsinki next week which is a by invitation only funded conference and provides leading innovators from around the world the opportunity to come together, visit schools, engage in Masterclasses, and learn about different innovative approaches and future perspectives from each other. This is an amazing opportunity to connect with leading innovative educators from around the world and I look forward to sharing my learnings on my return. In my absence from November 3rd until November 13th, Director of Teaching and Learning, Ms Sue Arahill will be Acting Principal.
We wish the cast and crew of Shrek all the best on Saturday for what is promising to be a very entertaining and professional production. We thank Directors Mrs Kristy Astwick and Mr Steve Lake and their team for the many hours of time they have given to bring the production to life. I apologise that I will be unable to attend and look forward to being part of celebrations on my return.
We give thanks to God for the generosity of heart and talent of people within our community who shape us gently and powerfully.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal