From the Principal

Congratulations to our Grade 9 students on a successful QUEST camp last week. The students spent four days on Maria Island, sleeping in tents and preparing their own meals. For those who are not regular campers, this was a big step outside their comfort zone. Over the course of the week, the students also completed some demanding activities, including a walk to Bishop and Clerk. This is a steep and uneven climb.

This week in Assembly, I spoke to Secondary students about banter. I was explaining how many families, including mine, engage in friendly jokes with each other. There is, however, a fine line between banter and times when a joke may go too far or be directed towards an area of sensitivity. Within a family or among close friends, there is frequently an understanding of topics around which a joke is likely to hit a soft spot. When people know each other well, they can also read when they have crossed a line and can step back with a sincere apology.

In a school context, many students may not be willing to show when they are uncomfortable with banter. They may try to put on a brave face or go along with humour that they may not otherwise engage with because they want the approval of their peers. This means that those making the jokes are not aware of the impact they may be having on others.

We appreciate those that make it clear to others that they do not approve of particular jokes, especially when the humour may be directed at someone else. Time and again, I am impressed by the courage shown by students to as they create a peer environment that is supportive, encouraging, and respectful.

This morning, for example, I was covering for a class for another teacher. I was impressed by the careful way in which students provided feedback to others. They identified the strengths and areas for development, balancing honesty with empathy. I am sure these students may be blunt and insensitive with each other at times, but it was a joy to see them intentionally choosing their words as they considered the potential impact on others.

Words have enormous power. They can tear down or they can build up. The book of James (chapter 3, verses 4-5) in the New Testament uses the following analogy:

"Take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts."

We want our students to foresee how their words may be received and for this to influence how they engage with others, whether it be in the classroom, the playground or on the sporting field.

"With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be." ~ James 3:9-10

Jodie Bennett

Principal