From the Deputy Principal

Parenting with passion

Over the course of the year I have many, many conversations with parents about the trials and tribulations of parenting, about supporting our young people and how we can enforce boundaries.  One thing is for sure, boundaries are really important for young people.  And yet, I have many conversations with parents who feel afraid to say 'no'.  Children need to hear 'no' from time to time, especially when their behaviour impacts others or prevents them from keeping safe.  Boundaries frame safe spaces for children and teens, guiding them to make better choices by virtue of the consequences they face for making poor decisions.  After all, young people are hard-wired to test boundaries and take risks; it's a perfectly normal part of growing up.  

Sometimes, the consequences they face might seem to our children to be: 

• unfair - 'But EVERYBODY else is doing it!' 
• ill conceived - 'This is SO stupid.'
• or based on inaccurate information or perceptions - 'You just don't understand' or 'You don't know what REALLY happened!' 

and these messages are delivered to us with passion, and determination for the young person to be 'right'.  But, experience tells me that, sometimes, the desire to be 'right' overcomes the desire to tell the truth.  And it's in these moments that boundaries are really important.  They reinforce our values and what it looks like to live by our values. 

As adults; parents and educators; it is our role to work with our young people to help them understand the consequences of their actions on others, and understand why those boundaries we set are in place.  Working together, from both home and school, is a beneficial way of achieving good outcomes for our children.  

Employment Opportunities

We would appreciate our GSG community helping to spread the word regarding the following employment vacancies:

• Boarding Supervisors
• Bus Drivers
• Cleaners
• Boarding Tutors

The School is particularly in need of Cleaners. Our cleaning team members ensure the School and Boarding Houses are kept hygienic and presentable, contributing to the overall welcoming environment at GSG for boarders, students, staff and visitors. There is great flexibility with this role. Please see the Careers section or visit Careers at Great Southern Grammar - Cleaner (gsg.wa.edu.au) for more information and/or to apply.

Mrs Emma Franklin | Deputy Principal