JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS
Adam Bond
Junior Sub-School Manager
I’m not a fan of digging up memories of Covid and the impact that this had on our children, but I want all parents to consider a couple of things about lockdowns and isolation. There is no denying that the lack of connection to peers and limited physical interactions during lockdowns and isolation periods, played a significant part in the rise in the number of children experiencing difficulties in managing their mental health. As a school, we witnessed this first hand and (to be completely honest) are still picking up the pieces after almost 12 months of ‘normality.’
This being said, many students can fall into an almost ‘self-imposed’ lockdown over the summer break, where interactions with others become limited, screen time increases significantly, and exercise becomes the short walk in between rooms at home. These habits are not necessarily formed overnight, but they are formed over January and by the time many students return to school, if these habits have not been broken, it will take students weeks to develop healthy habits, resilience and gratitude. Just because this isolation may be self-imposed, that doesn't mean that it will not influence the mental health of that child.
This may not be the most appealing summer in history, so make the most of it. Encourage your child to be outside, to be bored and to do some of the things that we (and our parents) used to do in our spare time - Ok, maybe not all! Things that build thicker skins, a socially active brain and a summer to remember rather than drifting into distant memories of real nothingness. A memorable childhood is built outside, not on Minecraft, and activities should be undertaken because they are liked, not for likes.
On a sad note, for me personally, but a fantastic appointment for the school, I would like to wish our current Year 7 Coordinator Daniel Grozdanovski all the best in his new role as the Middle Sub School Manager in 2023 and beyond. I would also like to welcome James Allen as the new Year 7 Assistant Year Level Coordinator and congratulate Janelle Butler on her appointment as the incoming Year 7 Coordinator for 2023. Our Year 8 team will remain the same with Tara Macleod and Bennett Thomson remaining at the helm and Bonnie Pratt continuing to be the face of our team as the Junior Sub School Assistant.
Can I ask one thing of you before Christmas? Thank someone for something that they have done for you this year. Acknowledge how someone has helped you in a time of vulnerability or may have said or done something where they have not realised the positive contribution that they have made to your life. This is a fantastic gift that costs you nothing financially and doesn't even need to be wrapped.
Have a wonderful break, stay safe and look after those around you.
Adam Bond
Junior Sub School Manager