Looking Back with Gratitude

I was captivated by a news report the other day. Apparently, retailers are now in competition with their very own pre-worn or ‘vintage’ products that are fetching higher prices than their new season stock. Profits are down, yet nostalgia is up. 

Whilst this might make for a catchy headline, I witnessed this first hand in my own household recently as my daughter claimed my 2001 ‘My Fair Lady’ high school production jumper as her attire for the night. “Vintage” she said is the new fashion amongst some of our young people and I’m fascinated as to why this is the case. To top it off, she casually remarked to me, “Living in the 2000s must have been so much fun.”  

Now I could drop the old saying “ah kids these days!” but that would be hypercritical of me. You see, I recently set up my Dad’s old turntable and arranged my Mum’s Elton John LPs to create a little ‘listening post’. Why? Because it gives me a glimpse of what it must have been like in the 70’s when turntables were central to living rooms during the height of the home record-player culture.  

It struck me that this pull toward the past might be more than sentimentality. God often invites His people to remember and recognise His unchanging faithfulness. For the things that last and have a story for us in the present. In the words of the Psalmist from Psalm 77:11-12: 

I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds. 

We’re currently in the discerning process for our 2026 Year 6 leaders and this same truth came alive for me as I watched 58 of our Year 5 students step up to share what they believe makes a great leader. 

As they captivated the 200 audience members with their wisdom and confidence for their allotted 50 seconds, it was incredibly uplifting to hear how the Bible and great leaders from the past were their inspiration. A passage that resonated through many speeches was from Philippians 2: 3-4: 

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Our wellbeing theme this term in Primary is Gratitude, with the sub focus: ‘Looking back with thankfulness and remembering what God has done.’ At our recent assembly, students reflected on challenges they’ve faced and how God has helped them grow along the way. It’s a powerful, yet difficult rhythm for young minds to consider. To pause, to remember/reflect, and to give thanks. 

Whether it’s a well worn jumper, the high fidelity of a vinyl record, or a student’s humble words about leadership, each moment can remind us that God’s story continues and His faithfulness is something truly worth celebrating. 

Introducing the 2026 Prep Team

With Kellie Westcott ably leading the charge as our Step Into Prep program continues, I am delighted to inform you of the teachers who will be joining her in teaching Prep next year. Orlagh Doyle and Mel Eadie will continue building on the wonderful work they have done with our current Prep students. 

Su-Ann Chung and Stephanie Farren are excited to be joining the Prep Team, working with our littlest learners and their parents in 2026. Please be praying for the team and our 2026 Preps as they continue with the transition program over the coming weeks.

Changes in Primary Learning Support

After many years of leading the Learning Support Team – coordinators, teachers and learning assistants - Helen Knight will be finishing her leadership role at the end of the year. Over the past 8 years, Helen has seen rapid growth of the department, bringing new ideas and initiatives to support student learning. We are thankful for the heart, passion and expertise Helen has brought to the role and look forward to seeing her continue to work with our Primary Students in a different way in 2026. 

In 2026 our Learning Support department will have a new name and a new leader, and I am delighted to announce that Mrs Bec Yeates will be the Head of Student Enhancement (Primary). Bec brings a deep passion for best practice in teaching and learning, ensuring that all our students access excellent learning opportunities that engage, enrich and enhance their knowledge, skills and understanding. We congratulate Bec and look forward to her leadership of this department.