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Middle Years

Dr Ben Hawthorne

College values

Something I notice about our students is the large number who say “thank you” as they depart a lesson. From Middle Years students through to our Year 12s, this is a noticeable habit and is something that doesn’t happen at every school. As a teacher, I find it quite special and a sign of good manners from our students.

 

Good manners are about much more than following rules — they are the foundation of a positive, safe, and productive learning environment. When students feel respected and valued by those around them, they are more confident, more engaged, and more willing to take on new challenges. The respectful atmosphere in our middle years classrooms is a direct result of the effort our students put in each day.

 

Manners also build habits that will serve our children well beyond the school gates — in friendships, in the community, and one day in the workplace.

 

None of this happens by accident. Strong expectations around behaviour and encouragement of real-life interactions help support good manners among our Middle Years students.  The values our students display at school are also a reflection of the lessons being taught and modelled at home. Thank you to every family for instilling in your students the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. Your partnership makes all the difference.