Message from the 

Head of the Junior School

World Teacher’s Day

Celebrated in more than 100 countries worldwide, World Teachers’ Day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 1994 to recognise the role of teachers in society. 

This year students in the Junior School were invited to share their appreciation of staff by taking on the role of being ‘bucket filler’. Bucket-fillers are those who act in a way that fills another person's bucket and refers to those who practise kindness and good behaviour. The analogy comes from the book How Full Is Your Bucket? by Tom Rath and Donald O. Clifton. 

This year has been filled with many challenges that staff have learnt to address and overcome, all while making sure the education of students continues. The commitment, ability to adapt and ongoing encouragement has reinforced the significant role teachers play in the life of each student and their family. October 29 this year took on greater significance due to remote learning and I was greatly encouraged by our students who took up the challenge to “fill a bucket” for not just one teacher, but many teachers who have an impact in their life each and every day. 

World Teacher’s Day this year was a time to say, 'thank you' and celebrate the achievements and leadership of teachers. An opportunity to take a moment to recognise the passion of teachers and how teaching has extended well beyond the classroom throughout remote learning.

Going forward my hope that students will take opportunities throughout the year to “fill a bucket” not just for their teacher’s but their peers. Our Junior School letterbox and internal post system in 2022 I hope will be a fun way to do this.

In 2022, I am very excited to share that extraordinary children’s author, Tim Harris will be partnering with students and staff in the Junior school as we focus on writing skills. Tim is the bestselling author of several laugh-out-loud series for kids, including Toffle Towers, Mr Bambuckle’s Remarkables and Exploding Endings. 

As a former primary school teacher of 15 years, his stories are filled with quirky scenarios, loveable characters and plenty of imagination. Tim’s ‘humour with heart’ writing style has seen his books receive multiple awards, including four KOALA Honour Books (2017, 2019 and 2 x 2020) and a CBCA Notable (2018). His books have been published in Australia, the USA, and have been translated into numerous languages.

Tim is also the creator of PRIMARY WRITERS, a YouTube channel dedicated to helping teach young learners the craft of writing. An advocate for creativity and short stories, Tim’s presentations and workshops are dynamic and entertaining. He is a sought-after presenter, having worked in hundreds of schools across Australia.

Through working with Tim we hope to inspire and equip our students with skills for life and maybe even see the early work of a future novelist.