The First Day!

The year is 1975. It was the year that I started school (now you know how old I am!). I have very vivid memories of the days leading up to my first day of school. I am the youngest of four children and I could not wait to be like my big brother and sisters and go to ‘big school’. 

I was not quite 5 years old when I started, but I remember trying to convince my parents that I was old enough to walk up the hill and cross the road (a main road!) by myself. I was a curious little girl, and I’m pretty confident that I would have asked lots of questions of my parents as I tried to prepare for this new and exciting adventure in my life.

I can also clearly recall my first day. I remember my little black bag, my black shiny buckle shoes and my blue and white dress, and I remember having photos on the front lawn as we prepared to walk up the hill. As I walked into the classroom, I can recall the greeting from my teacher, Mrs Hunter – the most kind, caring and loving teacher I ever had. Her smile was huge, her warm welcome evident and her love for the children under her care was seen in the way she taught us and made our days fun. 

At the same time, 50 years ago, 90 students began their learning at a brand-new school – Donvale Christian School (that’s what it was called back then). On the first day, some caught a bus, some walked and others were driven by car. No doubt there were many excited students, and some a little unsure. Knowing the curiosity of children, I am confident that all of them had lots of questions about the new school that they were about to attend.

• What will I do at school?
• Will I make friends?
• What will my teacher be like?
• Where will I play?

Skip forward 50 years, and today we welcomed 700 primary school students to DCC. Some caught the bus, some walked and others were driven by car. There were many excited little faces, as students reconnected with friends and welcomed new people into our school. Whilst there were a few apprehensive students too, the overwhelming sense in our yard and classrooms today was that the excitement levels were high and the anticipation for a great day (and year) of learning was palpable! What didn’t surprise us was that the same questions have swirled around the minds of our students today as those from 50 years ago. History does repeat itself!

Throughout its 50-year heritage, the DCC staff have been well known for the way they foster positive relationships and ensure that every child can marvel at the awe and wonder of God as they teach and celebrate the joy of learning every day. 

Today it is no different, and it was heart-warming to see each student greeted by teachers who have prayerfully and carefully prepared to welcome every child into their classrooms and into another year of rich, deep learning about God’s world.

We take time to pause and give thanks for the faith of our founders and the Hopeful Heritage of our College that started 50 years ago, and for the legacy that continues today. 

Please join me in praying for the students, the parent community and the staff as we celebrate God’s grace and look forward in faith to seeing more of His blessings in the year ahead.