Principal Report

Principal Message – Week 6  Term 3

They often say, "Art imitates life." While our school musical might initially appear as a cheerful and lively production, it holds a plethora of impactful messages within its songs and dialogue that strongly resonate with our school's stance on wellbeing.

When we selected Shrek Junior as this year's production, our focus was on the typical elements: a captivating storyline, delightful music, sing-along potential, and entertainment. However, as the term unfolded, it became clear how suitable our choice of this show was for our school.

In previous newsletters, I have discussed the essential skills that our children need to cultivate for their future. I've referred to various articles highlighting the importance of nurturing 'soft skills' for the evolving workplace. These skills, non-automatable and marked by a distinct human touch, encompass attributes such as kindness, tolerance, empathy, resilience, creativity, collaboration, cooperation, sensitivity, understanding, and acceptance.

Presenting a production like Shrek Junior transcends mere promotion of the Arts and enjoyment. It holds a deeper significance. It provides children not only with the chance to develop these 'soft skills' but also to witness them in action. At times, a musical, novel, song, or play is just what is needed to spotlight and articulate the essence of human experience.

Shrek Junior is not alone in this endeavour; countless shows, movies, and books have provoked introspection, prompted re-evaluation, and reshaped powerful life lessons. While it may seem initially centered around the Shrek Junior characters – Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, Dragon, Lord Farquaad, and an array of beloved childhood fairytale characters – it carries an underlying message that aligns seamlessly with our school’s wellbeing program. It fundamentally addresses diversity, stereotypes, minorities, tolerance, differences, kindness, friendship, and inclusion. Shrek and Fiona themselves epitomize the concept that external appearances are not what counts; it's one's inner self, actions, and words that truly matter.

Children are perpetual learners through observation. They emulate the behaviour and language of adults and their peers. In our current era, social media wields more influence than ever on children. Nevertheless, the way various plotlines and conflicts in Shrek's narrative depict his struggles as an outsider in the human community is a striking example of how empathy can be fostered and discussions about these issues can be introduced with ease.

As we approach the final stages of completing rehearsals for our musical, I hold hope that every child and adult involved will continue to uncover the profound essence of the show and its characters. I wish for each person to find a line, a song, or a scene that deeply resonates and embodies the spirit of our wellbeing program, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Let us remember, as the characters of Shrek Junior so convincingly point out to us:

What makes us special makes us strong.