Guling - School Update

"Care is important because if you didn't show care, your peers wouldn't feel welcome." 

This was one of the responses a student shared when I recently asked a group of students what care means to them. Their answers were thoughtful and insightful. They spoke about checking in on friends when they are homesick, helping others learn, standing up for one another, using good manners, caring for school resources and being positive role models for younger brothers and sisters. While each response was different, a common theme emerged: care is something we show through our actions and choices. Whether it is helping others feel welcome, ensuring people feel safe and included, or contributing positively to those around us, these everyday acts of care help build the connected and supportive learning community we value at MITS. 

This was reinforced through our recent R U OK? Day activities. The day provided an important opportunity to focus on the wellbeing of ourselves and those around us, while reminding students that a simple conversation can make a meaningful difference. Throughout the day, students participated in activities centred on health, wellbeing and connection, all aligned with the message of checking in with others and asking, "Are you OK?" 

Care is reflected not only in the way students support one another, but also in our commitment as educators to continually improve our practice. This term, staff have begun exploring the principles of Visible Learning, examining both the research and practices that have been shown to have the greatest impact on student learning. This work encourages us to reflect on our practice, use evidence to inform our decisions and better understand the impact we have as teachers. It will continue to be a key focus in Term 4 as we work together to strengthen teaching and learning across the school. 

As part of a recent persuasive writing task, students were asked to consider the question: "What does my community need?" One student's response argued that their community needed a new playground. They explained the importance of having a safe place for children to play and highlighted how improved facilities could benefit young people in the community. 

At its heart, this piece was an expression of care. The student was not writing about something they wanted for themselves. They were thinking about younger children, community safety and creating opportunities for others, while advocating for positive change in their community. 

Across classrooms, boarding and the wider MITS community, we continue to see many examples of care every day. Whether it is helping a classmate understand a learning task, checking in on a friend who is feeling homesick, taking pride in work, or supporting others to succeed, these actions help create the culture we value at MITS. 

One student's response also captured a different perspective on care. When asked why care is important, they said that caring means "trying to get smarter so I can be a lawyer one day." This response reminds us that care is not only about how we treat others. It is also about recognising that the effort we put in today helps shape our future. 

As we reach the end of Term 3, I would like to thank our students, staff and families for the care they continue to show towards one another and our school community. It is through these everyday actions, both big and small, that we create a safe and supportive environment where everyone can learn, grow and thrive. 

Michael Barnhoorn 

Head of School