Message from the Principal

Learning About Life from a Jigsaw Puzzle

During lockdown in 2020, jigsaws were a favourite activity in my house and the idea of a lovely picture puzzle being put back together is appropriate to use at the end of a busy and demanding semester. Life can sometimes feel like a bit of a puzzle. 

It is nice to arrive at the middle of the year and reflect on the progress and achievements of the first six months. Our students have grown, physically, emotionally, and academically. A three-week holiday is a perfect opportunity to refresh, renew and prepare for the second semester and the ‘charge’ towards a strong finish at the end of 2022. School reports, due early next week, will allow for some reflection and goal setting ahead of the second semester. Half the pieces of each of our personal 2022 puzzles have been put together with the second half yet to come. 

Whilst the effects of COVID, seem to be less dramatic, we are still adjusting to little pieces of our life being added again as we enjoy more normal sport, music, co-curricular activities and increased involvement of parents back on campus. There are still things that don’t fit into our pictures yet.

Most of us are familiar with jigsaw puzzles and have experienced the frustration of looking for that difficult to find piece. Then of course, there is the satisfaction that comes from successfully completing the puzzle. There are many things to learn from considering the process of doing a jigsaw puzzle and how it compares to the decisions and tasks we encounter each day. Consider these things that add a bit of perspective:

1. Don’t force a fit. If something is meant to be, it will come together naturally.
2. When things aren’t going so well, take a break. Everything will look different when you return.
3. Be sure to look at the big picture. Getting hung up on the little pieces only leads to frustration.
4. Perseverance pays off. Every important puzzle went together bit by bit, piece by piece.
5. When one spot stops working, move to another. But be sure to come back later (see #4).
6. The Creator of the puzzle gave you the picture as a guidebook. Refer to the Creator’s guidebook often.
7. Variety is the spice of life. It’s the different colours and patterns that make the puzzle interesting.
8. Working together with friends and family makes any task fun.
9. Establish the border first. Boundaries give a sense of security and order.
10. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations. Some matches are surprising.
11. Take time often to celebrate your successes—even little ones.
12. Anything worth doing takes time and effort. A great puzzle can’t be rushed.
13. When you finally reach the last piece, don’t be sad. Rejoice in the masterpiece you’ve made and enjoy a well-deserved rest. (1) Jackie Sewell – uncredited source.

School and life can be a bit like a puzzle and the pieces don’t always seem to fit easily. The ‘final picture’ is not always evident half way through. However, learning and growing is a process, whether it is describing learning to read in Kindy and Prep, the first steps of social ‘sorting out’ in early Secondary or preparing for the HSC in Year 12. 

I trust that the Calrossy community enjoys a wonderful mid-year break and returns in a positive manner to tackle the challenges of Semester 2, ready to make a difference and put in the rest of the pieces of the 2022 puzzle, making it a wonderful and memorable completed picture. 

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his people.” Ephesians 1:18

School reports

Calrossy staff are in the process of completing school reports for Semester 1. Junior School reports are due shortly and Secondary reports will be emailed to parents and available on the HUB in the first week of the holidays.

The feedback provided is vital in supporting the school/home partnership and indicates the various strengths, weaknesses and the overall attitude of the learner. For most parents it is the clearest indicator as to the progress of their child.

Careful appraisal of a report enables realistic goal setting and an opportunity to address difficulties and challenges. More than this, strengths and can be identified and confidence can grow.

What I read of the reports has me confident that the large proportion of students are making good progress and getting the most from their learning.

A few tips to helping your child to make the most of their reports include:

• Include the student in the process and give them an opportunity to read the comments and respond
• Highlight both positive and negative comments and recommendations
• Assist them to understand their strengths and grow in confidence
• Be realistic in appraisal and expectations
• Focus on the constructive comments and assist students to set realistic goals 
• Don’t reward or punish based on marks or grades
• Focus on your own child rather than other students’ marks/grades
• Balance comments from prior reporting periods and look for trends over time
• Seek clarification from a teacher if there are concerns or problems.

I trust that parents will find the feedback provided in reports to be comprehensive, constructive and helpful. By all means talk to a teacher or staff member if concerns are raised.

Student Success

Congratulations to the following Calrossy individuals and groups who have achieved great success in recent weeks:

• The Calrossy Equestrian Team were again successful at the recent North West Equestrian Expo, with the team being selected as the overall winners of the event for the 9th time in succession. Many thanks to the staff and large team of parents who provided a wonderful experience for the students. Congratulations to each competitor.
• Our Year 10 Science and Engineering Challenge team has been selected to compete in the NSW Finals of this competition in August, a wonderful achievement.
• The Calrossy Cattle Team excelled at the recent Dubbo Sales event, achieving excellent prices for our Shorthorn Bulls and being commended by many in the industry for their participation in this event. 
• Emily Taylor (Year 12) has been awarded a prestigious scholarship, the CM Hocking Scholarship from Herefords Australia for her outstanding work in the cattle industry. 
•  Erin Stirling (Year 10) shortly leaves for international competition in France as a member of the Australian Horseball team. 
• The School has achieved outstanding group and individual results in the Tamworth Eisteddfod, winning many Junior and Senior Competitions in singing, music, dance and speaking. Congratulations to the many participants in this event.

David Smith

Principal