ACTING PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Christian Community - Who We Are
Most people have heard the phrase ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. I think it is one of those phrases that we can easily use without truly reflecting on the power and truth of its message. However, over many years within the Haines household this phrase has gained significance and meaning that has shaped and impacted our family. In 2016, our daughter Ellie who was 6 years old at the time was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and selective mutism. Ellie is a beautiful and vibrant young girl who we love so much and has so many God given gifts, however my wife and I also noticed some areas of her social, emotional and physical development that were different to what would be considered ‘normal milestones’. In the time since her diagnosis, there have been many ups, downs, tears and questions. But what has become enormously clear to us is this notion of the power of ‘the village’ or in our case, Christian community, in collectively supporting the growth and development of our children.
Our community, particularly for Ellie, spans far and wide - yet it starts within the home. Additional to my wife and I, Ellie’s younger brother Oscar has over many years helped her to communicate to others and provide her with social cues when she is too anxious to do so herself. Our church community provided Ellie with a sensory and socially safe environment to enjoy kids church on a Sunday without being overcome with anxiety. When she was learning to swim as a 6-year-old, her swimming teacher used a gentle approach to not place pressure or expectation on Ellie in order to help her learn to swim in an environment that would otherwise be overwhelming. Her classroom teachers have been empathetic and considerate of unforeseen change creating anxiety for Ellie, and always took extra steps to ensure that she is comfortable in her learning environment. Her friends are patient and considerate of her little nuances, and they prefer to see her for her strengths as a gentle, friendly, fun, smart and happy person who loves to learn.
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Psalm 139:14
I know that my daughter is fearfully and wonderfully made, despite the challenges she faces at times as a person on the autism spectrum. That little girl is nearly 12 years old now and will next year be in Year 7, and I am encouraged and heartened to see God working in and through her. I am blessed to share that whilst Ellie still finds things like change, social cues and communication difficult, she is thriving in her learning, social groups and her relationship with God. As a Christian community at St Andrews Christian College, we also believe this for your children. I see St Andrews Christian College as a village or community with Christ at the centre in which we can partner with you to support, shape and stretch your children in all areas of their life and faith.
Nick Haines
Acting Principal