Principal's Ponderings

All Things Under Christ 

There is a powerful reminder at the heart of education at DCS, there is not a single part of life that sits outside the Lordship of Jesus. Every classroom, every conversation, every act of learning and relationship belongs to Him. This is not just a philosophy. It is a belief and calling.

As a community, we are invited to remember that education is never neutral at every school. What we believe about God quietly shapes what we teach, how we lead, and how we love. Here at DCS, this aligns so beautifully with our commitment to be 'Christ-centred', placing Jesus not at the edges, but at the very core of all we do.

To be 'Wholehearted' is to live this truth fully.

Wholehearted learning is not simply about information, it is about formation. It is about nurturing young people who know they are deeply loved by God, created in His image, and called to live lives of purpose. In our classrooms, on our playgrounds, and in our staffrooms, we are shaping hearts as much as minds. This is the sacred work entrusted to us.

Our commitment to 'Holistic Education' calls us to see each child not just as a learner, but as a whole person, spiritually, emotionally, socially, and academically. Every interaction becomes an opportunity to reflect grace, truth, and hope.

But we do not do this alone. Our commitment to 'Family Partnerships' reminds us that this journey is shared. Together with parents and caregivers, we walk alongside each child, united in a desire to see them flourish. There is something deeply powerful when school and home stand together, speaking the same language of faith, encouragement and growth.

And as we walk this journey, we are building more than a school. We are cultivating an Authentic Community. A wholehearted community is one where people are known, valued, and supported. It is seen in the quiet moments, a word of encouragement, a prayer offered, a meal shared, a presence in times of need. It is in the way we choose kindness, extend grace, and walk alongside one another through both joy and challenge.

We also recognise that we are part of a much bigger story. Those who have gone before us built Christian schools with courage, sacrifice, and deep conviction. The organisation we are part of, Christian Education National, is celebrating 60 years of Christian schooling this year. That's a rich and joyous celebration. Now it is our turn to steward this vision with faithfulness. Our commitment to leadership and sustainability, calls us to continue leading with integrity, to remain anchored in truth, and to ensure that what we are building today will continue to honour Jesus for generations to come.

Yet, there is a gentle challenge in all of this. The greatest risk is not that we would face opposition, but that we might drift. Drift from our purpose, drift from our first love, drift from wholehearted devotion.

So today, we lift our eyes again. We fix them on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. And we choose, once more, to be a people who live and lead wholeheartedly, bringing all things under Christ. Are you passionate to continue the calling of Devonport Christian Schooling into the future years too? My prayer is, that you, your family and your community around you, see the importance and heart of DCS and other Christian schools to thrive and be significant for today and the future generations. 

Because this is who we are. And this is what we are called to be.

As I write, I am reminded of the song by Abbie Gamboa - Eyes Locked on the King. With everything we do, we have our eyes on Jesus in worship and declaring His lordship over everything.

With my eyes locked on the King

It is well, my soul it sings

It's a simple kind of free

When I'm with You and You're with me

So let Your love come take the lead

I give up controlling things

When I'm with You, I can be weak

You're my source, my shield

The strength that carries me

With my eyes locked on the King

It is well, my soul it sings

It's a simple kind of free

When I'm with You and You're with me

My Jesus, my Jesus

I can't get enough of

My Jesus, my Jesus

Shalom,

Chad