Deputy Principal Message
James Roberts
College Uniform and Grooming
If you look good, you feel good, if you feel good, you go good.
I can still hear these words ringing in my ears from my old rowing coach (who was an Olympic silver medalist) who would say (yell) them to us at least once or twice a training session. Now, at rowing training you were not permitted to talk (except during rest periods) and so, as he had a captive audience, he would always go on to explain that it was more than just wearing the uniform (zootie) properly and making sure you had brushed your hair. He would drill into us that it was as much about your posture, body language and poise as it was the actual uniform.
These he said impact your attitude, and to win, you need a winner’s attitude (which starts with looking like a winner).
Now, anyone who knows me outside of St Mary’s, knows I’m not a collar and tie type of person, however, this is what I wear to work each day to ensure that I have the right mindset, am reminded of the importance of what I am doing and give 100% effort and attention to my work so I can be successful in what I do.
The same is true of school uniforms. At a basic level they are only seen as another means by which teachers and schools control and maintain behaviour of students. However, at a much deeper level teachers and schools want their students to be successful and reach their potential - uniforms are a way of removing some of the casual attitudes associated with casual dress. So we can say to be a successful student, you need to look like a successful student.
The moral: While there are many elements to being successful and reaching your potential, the first step is showing up looking like you want to be successful and reach your potential.
As we near the half point of the Term, I ask parents and carers to check in with their young person to ensure their uniform and grooming meets College expectations and that they are showing up to school dressed for success.
Kind Regards
James Roberts
Deputy Principal