From the Principal

This week I was dismayed to read a report in the media detailing the increased levels of litigation against schools from within school communities. However, while I felt saddened, it did not come as a surprise. I know from my conversations with fellow principals that this is a widespread issue many schools are currently grappling with. It is becoming increasingly common for routine disciplinary matters and minor concerns to escalate, fuelled by the erosion of communication and trust – regrettably diverting attention and funds away from the primary focus of student learning and wellbeing. 

Reflecting on the situation within our own school community, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude – not because I believe Girton is immune to these challenges, but because we have a strong and supportive community that can come together to resolve them. Each day, I see our parents and staff working in partnership to ensure the best outcomes for our students, their interactions typically characterised by mutual respect and an appreciation for our school’s commitment to the growth and success of our students. For this I am truly thankful.

This does not mean every conversation is positive, and I certainly do not mean to imply that our school is perfect. While we strive to achieve excellence in the operation of our school just as much as we encourage this trait within our students, I firmly believe that perfection is unattainable for any human and, by extension, any organisation filled with humans. Despite our best intentions, at times things will go wrong, mistakes will be made, and misunderstandings will be formed. But the strength of our community lies in how we come together during these moments of challenge, not just the moments of celebration. By talking through issues in a respectful manner, listening to each other’s points of view and acknowledging sometimes uncomfortable truths, we are able to work together to chart a path forward. These difficult conversations are not typically enjoyable, but they are always worthwhile, strengthening us not just as individuals but as a collective. 

The importance of these uncomfortable situations to our growth was a key theme of a seminar I recently attended, where organisational psychologist Adam Grant spoke about ways we can unlock hidden potential – undoubtedly the holy grail for every educator. Based on his extensive research, Adam has come to believe that we grow our skills and character by embracing discomfort rather than avoiding it. We become better as a community by challenging others respectfully, by listening with an open mind, and by being honest with ourselves and with each other, even when that might be difficult. These are the conflict resolution skills we aim to instil in our students, and I am filled with pride when I think about how we model them as a community. Together, we are shaping the path for our young people to develop into resilient, confident and independent young adults capable of building and maintaining positive relationships.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support, and I wish you a wonderful long weekend with your family.

Dr Emma O'Rielly 

Principal