Ponderings 

As this newsletter goes out, we will have just held our 2024 Primary Orientation Morning and a Secondary Year 7 and Year 8 full 2024 Orientation Day. We love these days as they bring assurance and preparation for the year ahead. We are excited and grateful for the goodness of God over our school and our community. As we stand on the threshold of another year's end, I am filled with gratitude and humbled by the growth and change we have witnessed amongst our students — the very heartbeat of our school. To hear talk of deep learning through 'Beyond' classes in secondary, design projects, primary acts of kindness in the yard and the Kinder growth in learning. These young individuals, entrusted to our care, have unfolded further learning, new understandings and greater knowledge. They have formed deeper formation of faith and weekly worship, declaring Jesus as Lord of all!

The Bible reminds us, 'Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!' - 2 Corinthians 5:17. Indeed, each moment with our students is a testament to this renewal. From their first steps in Kinder, to the eager strides in Primary as they run around a school yard and the gatherings of Secondary students, the journey has been a tapestry of change, each thread interwoven with divine grace.

I remember years back, as I comforted one of my own children when they were a baby, their tiny grasp on my finger was a silent plea for presence—a plea answered not just by a parent's hand but by the unseen hand of God. As it is written, 'For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you' - Isaiah 41:13. In those quiet moments, we learn to trust in Him who is above, and know His presence in both the good times and trials. 

As we look to a new year, a changing season again, we can be encouraged to embrace the spirit of Deuteronomy 31:6, 'Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.' Let us march forward with confidence in preparation for the 2024 school year. For our children, standing at the cusp of their next year of education, whether that is Kinder, in Primary or in Secondary education, they carry with them the legacy of our Lord's unwavering presence.

As a father, I remember the pride of first days of Kinder for my children, I also remember the final Year 6 graduation speech for two of my children, and the first steps into Secondary education for those two as well. I saw in their bright eyes the reflection of God's workmanship, each a unique story penned by His faithful hand. 

In the remaining days before the holiday break, let us hold steadfast in the knowledge that our journey is guided by an unchanging God. As Jeremiah 29:11 proclaims, 'I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' May this promise be the lamp unto the path of our children and the anchor for our souls in seasons of transition.

Can I encourage you, cling to the faith that our God is ever-present. As one school year chapter closes and another beckons. 

'And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.' 

Philippians 4:7 

In the spirit of Advent, a time of expectant waiting and preparation, let us anticipate with joy the coming year, 2024. Let our hearts be light, for in every change, in every goodbye (or I only say, 'See you soon'), there lies the promise of a new dawn.

Chad Smit  |  Principal