From the Head of Junior School

The Year of Courage in Calrossy Junior School

Each year at Calrossy we choose. A theme to focus our thinking and behaviours. This year it is the year of courage. 

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Courage requires us to be brave, to be honest, to persevere and at times have a little bit of zest. There is a level of strength required, not muscular strength – mental toughness. In our opening Assembly, I encouraged the children that to be courageous we are going to work on having a strong mind.

How can you help your child to be courageous? 

1. Lead by example. 
2. Create a supportive environment – an environment where your child feels safe to express their fears and concerns without judgement. 
3. Celebrate small victories – this will help to build confidence. 
4. Encourage problem solving – help your child to break down challenges into smaller, more manageable tasks. 
5. Expose them to new experiences – this will help your child to be resilient and adaptable. 
6. Teach positive self-talk – this helps to switch off negative thoughts. 
7. Encourage independence – gradually give your child more responsibility and autonomy. 
8. Discuss managing fears – fear is a natural emotion – discuss what you can do to manage it. 
9. Read inspirational stories – discuss how challenges were faced and overcome. 
10. Support safe risk-taking – encourage your child to take calculated risks – trying a new sport, making a new friend, speaking up in class. 
11. Teach perseverance – mistakes are part of learning and are valuable for growth. 

There is a long list, and I am pleased that we will be looking at courage all year! Be encouraged that we are in this together. 

Welcome to our new staff

• Mrs Belinda Cook in Learning Support
• Mrs Emma Armytage in Prep 
• Mrs Jade Taylor in Executive Release (Yr 4R/5R) 

Please remember that starting the school year is fun as well as exhausting for everyone – parents, staff and children. Please prioritise some down time at the end of each day. Allow children the time for free time and free play and go to bed early. A good night sleep will make a world of difference for everyone!

Claire Smith 

Head of Junior School

Garden Club Harvest

The smiles say it all! Summer harvest is well and truly underway. The students were thrilled to return to school this week and begin picking the veggies that they planted at the end of last year.