Inclusion Update

Being Like Rose: Big Courage in Little Learners

Last week in our wellbeing sessions, we explored Rose Meets Mr Wintergarten by Australian author and illustrator Bob Graham.

This beautifully illustrated story highlights two powerful themes: bravery and kindness. We meet Rose, a brave young girl who finds the courage to knock on the door of the grumpy Mr Wintergarten. Despite the frightening rumours, she discovers he is not a child-eating recluse with a pet crocodile, but a lonely old man. All Rose wants is her ball back, and through her kindness and empathy, she forms an unexpected friendship with him.

This heartwarming story prompted rich discussion about times we have felt nervous or scared, and how facing those moments can leave us feeling proud and more resilient. Students expressed these ideas creatively by making courage bracelets (or bookmarks) and courage badges.

Courage helps us move through situations that feel uncomfortable or confronting. Each time we get to the other side, we build confidence in our ability to act bravely, even when something feels hard. Barriers to courage often include self-doubt, fear of failure, and perfectionism. It’s important to reframe failures as learning opportunities and recognise that mistakes are simply a part of life. This is a valuable message for our children and an important reminder for us as adults. Practising self-kindness leads to greater self-compassion, which is essential for fostering resilience.

As we welcome our new families and next year’s prep students, this theme feels especially timely. Beginning school is a significant step into the unknown, and an early opportunity to develop resilience and courage. The new environment, connecting with peers and staff, and engaging in structured learning all take bravery to embrace. There may be tears or hesitation, but when parents, carers and school staff model courage and provide reassurance and positivity, children are far more likely to settle successfully.

Courage is the quiet force that moves us forward even when every step feels uncertain. 

Cybersafety and Digital Wellbeing