From the Principal

The Importance of Respect

Dear Parents

A defining feature of a Kinross Wolaroi School education is our strong sense of community. Unlike a simple gathering of individuals, a community is united by shared values, purpose and identity – elements that create cohesion and a genuine sense of belonging. Being part of such a community offers connection, comfort and security, and at its heart lies the respect that members show one another.

Kinross Wolaroi School could be described as a ‘conservative’ school in the best sense of the word: we uphold and respect important traditions while embracing a progressive approach to teaching, learning and co‑curricular life. Among the values that support our strong school community, respect remains central. In an era where society can sometimes feel increasingly self‑focused, we are regularly reminded of the importance of respect – for oneself, for others, for property and for the expectations that shape healthy social interactions.

What is respect?

Farid (2005) describes respect as having genuine regard for the feelings of others—listening carefully, offering full attention, and treating people with consideration and esteem. It involves not only receiving this kindness, but also offering it in return. At its core, respect is about recognising the dignity of every person.

William Ury (2000) expands on this idea in The Third Side, noting that human beings share fundamental emotional needs: love, recognition, belonging, identity, purpose and meaning. He suggests that if these needs could be expressed in a single word, that word would be respect.

Why is respect so important?

The 18th‑century novelist and clergyman Laurence Sterne offers a timeless answer: “respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners.” Our morals and our manners shape our social identity – how we see ourselves and how we interact with those around us.

In everyday life, whether at home, at school, or in the wider community, respect helps create a safe, positive and harmonious environment. Ultimately, it comes down to a simple principle: treating others the way we would like to be treated.

At a recent Senior School Assembly, I shared a few simple but meaningful pointers to help them demonstrate respect for others. Many of these are grounded in basic common sense and common decency, yet they make a significant difference in how we treat one another. I encouraged them to:

• Choose kindness over criticism – avoid making fun of others.
• Listen attentively when someone is speaking – offer your full attention.
• Acknowledge that others’ opinions matter, even when they differ from your own.
• Consider what others like and dislike – be thoughtful and respect their preferences.
• Speak positively about people – avoid talking about others behind their backs.
• Be mindful of your words and actions – recognise that others’ feelings are genuine and important.

• Respect people’s choices – never pressure someone into doing something they’re uncomfortable with.

   

These simple habits help strengthen our relationships and contribute to a school community built on kindness, understanding and mutual respect.

As always, we seek your support in discussing these issues as a family to affirm these as ‘life’ lessons and not just ‘school’ lessons.

The first part of the year seems to have passed by so quickly. It has certainly been a term full of activity and determined endeavour in all aspects of the School. From my perspective, the school year has commenced well and the students, overwhelmingly, are positively engaged in their learning. 

Yours sincerely

Timothy J Kelly

Principal

Farid, S. (2016). Respect | Beyond Intractability. Beyondintractability.org. Retrieved 20 April 2016, from http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/respect

Sterne, L. (1775). The works of Laurence Sterne. Dublin: Printed for H. Saunders, D. Chamberlaine, and J. Potts, Booksellers.

Ury, W., & Ury, W. (2000). The third side. New York: Penguin Books.