From the Head of Campus' Desk

Dear Parents/Guardians

A part of Heatherton Christian College that many parents and students may not be fully aware of is the morning staff briefing and staff led devotions, a ritual that takes place every morning at 8:15am in the staffroom. And, as an added bonus, one morning a week is worship led by some of our talented staff musicians and singers.

The briefing is a time where we share what’s on for that day and hear reports about things that are happening (camps, mission trips, etc) or that have just happened (events such as the House Athletics, Musical Soiree, excursions etc).

The staff led devotions are meant to be for 5 to 7 minutes (though some struggle to restrict it to that time) and are perhaps my favourite and most special part of the morning. So many times I may have come to school with my thoughts focussed on me and what I have to do for the day, only to find that the enforced slowing down whilst listening to a message from and of God, is just what is needed for me to gain a healthier perspective on the day to come.

Staff often say that they feel nervous when speaking in front of their peers (which gives us some empathy for the students having to do the same!), but they do it so well and in so many different ways and formats. There is often humour, special insights into each other’s lives and backgrounds, vulnerability, sometimes tears, some profound and challenging or uplifting messages, and some simple and touching thoughts. Often there are messages of God's love, grace and hope, or people regularly share about their strong sense of God’s call to work at the school. No matter what is shared, this is one ritual that helps us develop a sense of connection and support for each other, for the students entrusted to our care and for living out God’s purpose through our work here.

I regularly come away remembering that Heatherton Christian College is a special and unique place to work.

Phil Eastman

Head of Campus