St Finbar's Newsletter

Deputy Principal's Report

Dear Parents,

Healthy Harold- exploring our strengths

 

We had the fortunate opportunity to conduct a follow-up session with the Year Three students after their lesson with Harold last week. During this session, they delved into the concept of character strengths and how these attributes can vary among each of us. It was inspiring to listen to the children discussing their own strengths and the ways they express these qualities.

 

Kids have many different kinds of strengths, not just academic ones. Sometimes they’re obvious, like when a child is really good at drawing or playing sports. But other strengths can be harder to notice — like being a good listener or working well in groups. Kids who have the less obvious strengths tend to get missed. Recognising and talking about our strengths can help kids thrive. This is especially true for kids who are struggling in school.

 

Kids have many different kinds of strengths, not just academic ones. Sometimes they’re obvious, like when a child is really good at drawing or playing sports. But other strengths can be harder to notice — like being a good listener or working well in groups. Kids who have the less obvious strengths tend to get missed.

Recognising and talking about our strengths can help kids thrive. This is especially true for kids who are struggling in school.

 

Even as adults, its important to reflect on our own strengths and those of others. How can we use these to make a positive difference in our lives and the lives of others? I encourage you to sit down and reflect as a familiy on the many strengths you have and maybe pick on that you could work on. Some of these personal stengths may include:

Character strengths

  • Is honest and trustworthy
  • Is caring, kind, and empathetic
  • Helps others
  • Shows loyalty
  • Works hard
  • Is resilient
  • Shows independence
  • Cooperates

Social strengths

  • Shares, takes turns, and can compromise
  • Puts effort into making friends and keeping them
  • Is a good listener
  • Accepts differences in others
  • Asks for help when needed
  • Accepts personal responsibility for actions (good and bad)
  • Tells the truth and can apologise when needed
  • Has a good sense of humor

Language strengths

  • Uses words to express needs, wants, and ideas
  • Participates in discussions at home, at school, and with friends
  • Tells stories that have a clear beginning, middle, and end
  • Understands jokes, puns, and sarcasm

Learning skills strengths

  • Understands and sets goals; can plan ahead
  • Is a self-starter
  • Stays focused on tasks
  • Tries different approaches (flexible thinking)
  • Organises thoughts and physical items (like a backpack)
  • Follows rules and routines well
  • Learns from mistakes and solves problems

Other strengths and talents

  • Is creative/artistic
  • Dances, acts, sings, or plays a musical instrument
  • Plays sports or games (including video games)
  • Practices yoga, mindfulness, or meditation
  • Takes care of animals and/or younger children
  • Entertains people by telling jokes or stories

Studies have shown that when we build on our strengths rather than focusing on our weaknesses we become more confident, have higher levels of energy are more resilient, perform better at work and are more likely to achieve our goals. We really can't argue with that, right? 

 

2024 Year 6 Leavers Rugby Jumper

Thank you to all the students and parents for voting on the design of the 2024 Year 6 Rugby Jumper.

 

Here are the chosen designs for 2024 (please note the second image is showing the 'artwork' only. The style will match the first picture)

 

Can Year 6 families please ensure they do a fitting session asap. Size samples are in the school foyer. 

 

 

Thanks again for all your support,

Peggy McDonald & Steele Anderson

Deputy Principals