From the Principal

Fiona McAuliffe

Harmony Week

As a College community we celebrate Harmony Day on 21 March in so many special ways. I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the vibrant and diverse community we have built together at Good News Lutheran College. Harmony Day is not just a date on the calendar—it is a reflection of who we are and what we strive to become: a community united in diversity, strengthened by respect, and guided by our shared values of Grace, Respect, Integrity, and Courage. 

 

This week has been filled with activities that highlight the beauty and strength of our differences. From cultural dress days and shared meals to student performances and classroom discussions, we have witnessed firsthand the power of coming together as one community. Today is the culmination of those efforts—a celebration not only of our cultural diversity but also of the respect and understanding that bind us together. 

Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization." These words ring true as we reflect on our mission to empower inquiring minds and prepare global citizens. Our classrooms are alive with different languages, traditions, and perspectives—each contributing to the rich tapestry of our learning environment. As an International Baccalaureate school, we are committed to fostering compassionate, reflective, and respectful global citizens, ready to engage thoughtfully with the world around them. 

 

This commitment aligns perfectly with our Strategic Action Plan for 2025 and beyond. Our focus on Living Christ’s Mission calls us to extend grace and love to all. Our goal of building a strong Learning Culture drives us to celebrate and integrate diverse perspectives into our educational practices. Our dedication to Wellbeing means that every student and staff member feels supported, valued, and safe. And through Community Engagement, we aim to be a positive presence within the broader Wyndham community and beyond—working together to build meaningful and respectful relationships. 

 

At the heart of Harmony Day is respect—respect for each other's stories, backgrounds, and right to belong. True harmony is not achieved by ignoring our differences but by embracing them. When we listen to each other's stories and open our hearts to different perspectives, we create a more compassionate and understanding community. 

As we celebrate today, I encourage each of you to take the time to share your story and to learn about someone else’s. Let us walk together with grace, respect, integrity, and courage. Let us carry the spirit of Harmony Day beyond today—into our homes, and our communities. 

 

May we continue to reflect the love of Christ in all we do, building a school community where every person feels valued, respected, and heard. 

Thank you for being part of this journey. 

 

Fiona McAuliffe

College Principal