Lessons Too Important Not to Learn!

There are some occasions that are too important to pass over. ANZAC day is one of those important days which, although commemorated during the recent break, should take priority in our discussions with our students. 

This year, I had the privilege of taking our Primary Captains, Claire Cox and Janek Sandanayake to the Schools Anzac Day Service, an event facilitated by the Rotary Club of Templestowe. 

With many students from schools across Manningham, it was a lovely time of remembrance as we reflected on the sacrifice and the idea of ‘mateship’, an Australian cultural idiom that embodies equality, loyalty and friendship.

Across the term, the Primary Wellbeing focus will build upon this idea of ‘mateship’, as we seek to equip students with strategies to help them navigate friendships and social skills each day. 

Just as the ANZACs displayed camaraderie and mateship, it is our deep hope that as young people, our students will develop the reliable qualities of loyalty, dependability, authenticity and love in the way they relate with and play alongside others at school and at home.

Being made in the image of the Father, we have been created to be in relationship with Him and with others. At school, the social connections our students experience are vast and varied, and we want to provide our Primary Students with the strategies they require to negotiate and navigate the joys and challenges that arise as friendships are developed, even when ‘bumps’ come along.

Ephesians 4: 31-32 says, 

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behaviour. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” 

This week, we introduced a simple three-step process to help our young learners to begin resolving ‘friendship bumps’ independently. 

1. When you are calm and ready to talk – REACH OUT
2. Find a place for you and your friend – TALK IT OUT
3. Plan a way forward – SMOOTH IT OUT

We also want our students to be discerning in relationships, especially those that can be formed online. This has been the basis of the learning in our Cyber Safety workshops over the past week, and at our parent information session last Tuesday evening (more information from Brendan Deith in the next section). 

I encourage you in the conversations you will have with your children as you support them in developing these important life-skills.