St Augustine's College Kyabram

From the Principal

As the sun shines down on us to end Term 3, we should all take the time to reflect on what we are grateful for.  Being grateful for all that we have in life is one of the keys to true happiness.  By recognising all of the wonderful things we have to be appreciative for, rather than dwelling on the negative, often those ‘not so wonderful’ things don’t seem so bad after all. Being grateful doesn’t imply you’ve got your rose-coloured glasses permanently on, nor does it mean that everything is necessarily wonderful. It simply indicates that you are aware of your blessings, appreciate the small things and acknowledge all that you do have. Being grateful shifts the lens from what is lacking or not ideal to what is already present and good.

 

Studies have shown that being grateful can increase happiness levels by up to 25%. The practice of being grateful, not just for a day, but as an established habit, has been linked with numerous physical and emotional benefits and as such, has been shown to improve overall quality of life. Here are just some of the benefits:

  • Improves overall physical health
  • Improves mental health
  • Improves relationships and social interactions
  • Stronger immune system
  • Improves quality of sleep
  • Enhances empathy and reduces aggression
  • Increases self esteem
  • Lower levels of depression
  • Increases resilience, better able to cope with stress
  • Improves mental alertness
  • Higher levels of physical activity
  • More likely to make healthier choices – less likely to smoke, eat poorly
  • Less self-centred and materialistic

Looking at the above benefits, I will certainly be doing my best to be more grateful in all aspects of my life.  Hopefully, over the holiday break, we have the opportunity to spend some quality time with family and friends for which we can be grateful.

 

It is with great excitement that we have been able to appoint two new Deputy Principals for 2020.  After a lengthy interview process, we are excited to announce the following new appointments:

  • Deputy Principal of Catholic Identity & Community - Kylie Morrissey
  • Deputy Principal of Student Learning & Professional Practice - Melissa Key

Kylie is currently the Faith & Ministry Leader at Marist College, Bendigo.  Committed to both her faith and Catholic Education, Kylie has also taught at St Joseph’s Echuca and worked at the Sandhurst Diocese Chancery.  We are excited to have Kylie join our Executive Team from 2020.

For many, Melissa Key is a familiar face at St Augustine’s.  Melissa has previously led our F-4 Community in Student Learning & Professional Practice and this year, was appointed to replace myself, while I undertook the role of Principal.  Melissa has proven to be a progressive educational leader and we are excited that she will continue to lead our College in student learning.

 

Term 4 will bring a new look to our College as we embark on our two-year transition into the new school uniform.  We anticipate that the new uniform will be ready in the second week of the school holidays through our supplier, Mister Embroidery.  A reminder to all families that students will need to have their hats ready for the start of Term 4 as we continue to promote and practice being a sun smart school.

 

This morning it was great to see so many people enjoy our Beaut Blokes' Breakfast.  This opportunity allows so many people to come into our school and feel a part of the wonderful community we are.  For all those who organised, worked, attended and dressed their children in football colours, I am truly GRATEFUL.

 

I would like to thank all staff, students and families for their wonderful support over the course of the term.  May you have a safe and fun holiday break.  Also, be mindful of where you can show your own gratitude.

 

Brayden Stone

Principal