Middle Years 

If you walk into a dark, unfamiliar room, our first instinct is to find the nearest light and turn it on. If we’re stressed and under a lot of pressure, people say to us, “There’s a light at the end of the tunnel. “Finding the light” is a common thing that people are searching for.

This natural search for light is often referred to as the heliotropic effect, which simply means that every living system has a tendency toward light and away from darkness. For example, if you put a plant near a window that faces the sun, you will soon notice that the plant begins leaning toward the light to maximise photosynthesis. 

The heliotropic effect is often referred to in Positive Organisational Psychology, but it is also just as relevant in Positive Education.

Positive emotions, although fleeting, have a long-lasting impact on students by expanding their mindsets in ways that lead to enhanced well-being and social connectedness. According to the heliotropic effect, students that are positive in their interactions with others, build social connections and allow people around them to also experience positive emotions. This is the light that other students are drawn towards. Students feel important, respected and purposeful in their interactions. If we shine the light on students’ positive attitudes, mindsets and emotions others will follow, because when lightness shines on darkness, human tendency is to follow the light.

This week our Middle Years Assembly focused on building positive emotions throughout the school, for the heliotropic effect to promote this positive state through all students. The Middle Years students begin their exams on Monday and I encourage them to approach these challenges with a positive attitude, optimistic mindset and in a positive emotional state. They will be the light for others to follow. 

Reminders:

• If students are being picked up from School for appointments, please ensure that they sign out at the front office.
• Year 7 and 8 Exams - begin Monday 28 November
• Year 9 Step-up begins - Tuesday 29 November
• Year 7 and 8 Step-up begins for Year 7s and 8s Thursday 1st December
• Year 8 Camp departs Monday 5th December

BEN HAWTHORNE

Head of Middle Years