From the Principal

Our staff at Oxley Christian College do an amazing job supporting students to feel connected. I observe this in the playground when I see groups of students walking around with a teacher having a delightful conversation. I recently noticed this at the EISM Athletics Carnival and how our staff encouraged our students after their events. In our classrooms, our staff prioritise getting to know the students in their classes, which creates a learning environment where all students can experience a sense of belonging.

As a team of staff, we value the opportunity to serve one another in love while providing a safe and nurturing environment where all students may experience what it is like to belong in a Christian community. Our Vision at Oxley, to delight in God’s love through inspired learning, acknowledges our commitment to focusing that love into every aspect of the teaching and learning process, creating a truly inspirational environment.

Our Home Group classes are a special time each day. During this time, students across the school have an authentic opportunity to develop a closer connection with their classmates with the support of the Home Group teacher. These connections are strengthened through guided conversations, praying together, and sharing devotions. Commencing our school day in prayer allows us to connect to Jesus. Our connection with Jesus is essential for our spiritual growth and supports us to flourish in everything that we do.

It is lovely to witness the connections developed across year levels at Oxley. Connections can develop during activities like interschool sports, music groups, musicals, lunchtime activities, and House events. These activities and programs are all core features of our Oxley Horizons program. I am incredibly grateful for the efforts of our staff who support these important programs and activities, which ultimately help our students to feel like they belong.

The benefits of a school that fosters strong connections between students, staff and families are far-reaching. Rob Loe in the book, The Relational Teacher noted,

… where a school was intentional about building relationships amongst peers, so levels of wellbeing were higher, bullying levels lower and physical health improved, with fewer students having time off school, (Loe, 2016, p. 13).

The positive outcomes associated with strong connections are not just psychological; they also impact students academically. Loe also highlights that,

Evidence tells us that students who develop positive relationships with teachers and their peers achieve stronger academic outcomes, (Loe, 2016, p. 13).

We know supporting students to feel connected supports students ultimately to feel included, valued, and encouraged.

Our theme verse this year from John 15:5 continues to remind us of the importance of our connection with Jesus and the significance of abiding in Him. 

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

I pray our Christ-centred school community will continue to support students to develop strong connections with their classmates, with staff, and the broader College community. We also pray we can continue to strengthen our connection with Jesus each day.

Working together, 

Michael Bond

Principal

Reference

Loe, R. (2016). The relational teacher. Relational Schools.