Middle Years 

ICCES Hockey – A lesson in Positive Education 

Last Thursday and Friday I had the privilege of coaching the ICCES Hockey Team as part of the ICCES Winter Tour. Our team was made up of 14 Middle Years Students and one Year 10; we were the youngest team in the competition, yet the team won every game they played. While the hockey results were impressive, and you can read about this in Charlie’s report later in this newsletter, I was reminded of four key themes in Positive Education:    

1. Persistence and perseverance pay off – for two of our games we were down by a goal, even being down 2-1 in a penalty shootout with only one shot left. On each of these occasions, there was a determined approach with all players persevering by running and attacking again and again. Eventually, this paid off with successful goals to equalize, and then even get in front. Persistence pays off.      
2. A strengths-based approach works – for three of the games our team played a much older and physically stronger team. We focussed on playing to our strengths – running in numbers, using skills to get around players, and using aerials. Playing to these strengths, as well as being persistent (above), was effective and enjoyable.      
3. Working together is effective and efficient, but it’s also made things more fun - Our team’s goals and impressive plays did not revolve around a single person, they involved two or more people working together, playing their role, and selflessly passing to other players. This meant that when a goal was scored the whole team felt part of the success, had fun, and celebrated accordingly. Playing as a team was fun for all involved – you should have heard the conversations and excitement after the two days! 
4. Kindness matters – during one of the games our team won 10 – 0. While this was a very one-sided match, our students were kind and generous to the other team, most of whom had never played hockey before. They talked and laughed with the opposition on the field, congratulated their good plays, and gave advice on rules/ tactics etc. It was nice to watch and be part of this game, but when it came to a penalty shoot-out in the semi-final and during the grand final this team, who we profoundly beat earlier, were the loudest and most positive supporters of our team. Being kind and generous matters and is often repaid.

I had a great time with this wonderful group of Middle Years students. It made me realise that this team was a living example of Positive Education in action: strengths, perseverance, teamwork, and kindness…… and winning does feel pretty good!        

It’s been a very busy term, so I do wish all of the Middle Years’ students and families a safe and restful holiday. I’m looking forward to Term Three.    

Ben Hawthorne

Head of Middle Years