From the Principal
Term 2 has been full of several wonderful events that capture the heart of our community. We have celebrated Mother’s Day and Grandparents and Special Friends Day, and we have held our College production Hans Christian Anderson and House Cross Country. These highlights are living examples of flourishing with our community among the many other activities and classes that contribute to the fabric of our community.
I recently had an article in CEN’s Nurture Magazine published called The Power of Positive Parent Partnership. As you know, strong and healthy parent partnerships are at the core of who we are at Bayside. Here is an abridged version in which I have shared 5 of my top 10 tips. I will share the remaining tips in the next newsletter.
Several years ago, in a different educational setting, I met with two parents regarding a typical school disciplinary matter involving their child. Understandably, a range of emotions surfaced including anger, frustration, and disappointment as we discussed various aspects of the event and the consequences that followed.
At a pivotal moment in the discussion, I felt the prompting to ask the parent, “But do you trust us?” In other words, “Do you trust the teachers, the leaders, the culture of our school, and our values?” It was a risky question. I’m the first to acknowledge that we don’t always get things right. However, I had a quiet confidence that, having had their children in the school for some time, these parents believed in the school’s vision and mission and trusted that teachers, to the best of their ability, had positive intentions toward their family.
The parent paused and responded thoughtfully, “We do. But how can we build more trust?” One phrase in our Bayside Mission is to “assist parents in their God-given task of educating their children”.
While this phrase may be easy to overlook, it holds profound significance and should not be underestimated.
Research consistently shows that one of the most effective ways to support a child’s learning is through strong and positive partnerships between home and school. Where this partnership exists, children tend to have better attendance, feel more positive about school, perform better academically, and develop healthier social skills by observing respectful interactions between school staff and parents. Ultimately, this leads to improved social, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
In his book Principled, Paul Browning highlights that trust lies at the heart of individual, collective, and organisational wellbeing. It is also at the heart of these vital parent partnerships. Trust grows when communication is open, relationships are respectful, and everyone works together with the shared goal of seeing children flourish academically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.
To answer the parent’s question, I spent time reflecting on simple but powerful ways parents can strengthen their connection with the school community; ways that build trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. While there are many, here are my top 5 with 5 more to follow in the next newsletter.
1. Assume positive intent.
As a parent, I know I don’t always parent perfectly. Similarly, teachers may not always get things perfect either. You can be confident, however, that they have your child’s best interests at heart. I encourage you to approach interactions with that belief.
2. Listen to understand.
Teachers usually have a well-rounded understanding of situations, having spoken with everyone involved. Take time to listen carefully and seek to understand the school’s perspective before responding. Parents typically see only their own child’s experience, while teachers balance the needs of many students. Trust that teachers hold a broader (and at times confidential) view.
3. Use respectful language.
Even when emotions are high, calm and respectful dialogue keeps conversations productive. This expectation applies to staff as well.
4. Model positive partnerships.
It is important that school staff speak positively to students about your family and encourage positive family dynamics. In turn, speaking respectfully about the school in front of your child models what healthy partnerships look like. This does not mean you will always agree with school decisions, but affirming teachers and the school in your child’s presence has a powerful impact on their sense of security and wellbeing.
5. Support school processes.
Follow the school’s communication channels, policies, and procedures. This promotes fairness, clarity, and shared understanding.
Inspired by the Raising Children Network.
I’ll share the remaining five tips in the next newsletter.
Enjoy the rest of Term 2!
Celebrating Mr Sam Waldron - Australia’s Christian Teacher of the Year
We are delighted to celebrate our very own Mr Sam Waldron, who has been named Australia’s Christian Teacher of the Year at the Christian Schools Australia National Policy Forum on May 25th. This wonderful honour recognises not only his exceptional skill as an educator but also the heart, dedication, and Christ‑centred passion he brings into every classroom.
Mr Waldron’s influence reaches far beyond his teaching. His care for students, his commitment to their growth, and his steady encouragement have shaped many young lives and enriched our school community. We are truly blessed to have him as part of Bayside Christian College.
This achievement is a reflection of the excellence and heart that defines our entire teaching staff. We are incredibly proud of Mr Waldron. Congratulations!