Last week we were fortunate to host many Grandparents and Special Friends on the campus to not only celebrate their contribution to the lives of our students but to share our College and the learning journey that takes place both inside and outside the classroom. We were treated to a meaningful chapel celebration of the special people in our students’ lives, led by our Preps before our guests spent the morning in learning spaces. The day was topped off by a wonderful morning tea prepared by our talented hospitality staff and a showcase concert from various musicians across the College.
Grandparents' and Special Friends' Day is always a highlight of the College year. The students are eager to showcase their learning and progress with their extended family. There is always a buzz of excitement across the Junior College from our guests, discussing how schooling has changed through the years and what opportunities are now available for our students.
We thank our Grandparents and family members for their attendance last Friday. We would like to acknowledge the role that all extended community members play in the lives of their students. We trust that our Grandparents and friends had a small insight into a portion of what occurs during a day at the College and we thank our teaching, grounds, hospitality and music staff for the planning and commitment to the day’s success. We look forward to welcoming you back to the College in 2024.
The Outdoor Classroom
Since the College’s inception, an intentional focus has been on the outdoor classroom. The building of student capacity through the Outdoor Education Program seeks to educate and grow students in unfamiliar situations whilst reflecting and growing themselves and developing an appreciation of the environment and nature.
Our Pacific Way deliberately addresses how we collaborate, take risks and show initiative. We also develop a deeper sense of God’s Creation and gain an insight into the Kabi Kabi People as the custodians of the land.
Last week, I was fortunate to attend the Year Two Outdoor Education Experience on Chambers Island, on the Maroochy River. Across our Foundation Years, the College Outdoor Education Program is designed to be a gentle introduction to understanding the gift of our natural environment, the wonders within and the need for conservation.
The theme for the day was “Sustainability and the Local Area”. The students explored the flora and fauna of the island, built shelters and habitats, and learned about the creatures in the biome from Ocean Life Education. All the while learning the importance of conservation and minimizing the impact of humans on the local landscape.
These experiences require careful planning and execution, and I would like to thank Mr Paul Brace, Head of Outdoor Education, for his meticulous preparation along with the many staff involved, both prior to and on the day. The students had a wonderful learning experience, again highlighting the value of the outdoor classroom in holistic education.
Brainstorm Productions
During the week, Junior College students across Year Three, Four and Five attended a performance by visiting the production company, Brainstorm. The purpose of this event was to educate and inform students primarily around the correct use of technology and devices as well as making students increasingly aware of the perils of the internet and how to solve issues should they arise.
This current production, Sticks and Stones, is a fun and inclusive student well-being program for primary schools that reinforces positive relationships and supports vulnerable children to build confidence and social and emotional skills.
It encourages positive connections, cooperation, impulse control and respect. The e-Safety Commissioner endorses Brainstorm Productions as a Trusted e-Safety Provider.
Student Safety
At last week’s assembly, I reminded students of their responsibility in and around the many roads, paths and bikeways that lead to the College. These networks are utilised by many of our students, and it was a timely reminder that all users have a responsibility to use them correctly. It is important that our students are also aware of road users and they were reminded of crossing at appropriate zones, wear correct safety equipment and always double-check before leaving footpaths and refuse islands.
I also reminded students that the gate closest to Prep that allows access to the College from the P-2 carpark is always to remain closed. Intentionally placing items that allow the closing mechanism to not automatically close jeopardises student safety, and we ask that when entering the College via this entry point, this gate is allowed to operate as designed.
Take care and God Bless.
Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Students P-5
Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College