CIS Splash

As I write this it is hard to believe that we are rapidly approaching the half way mark of this term and the completion of the year.  As we return to onsite learning it has been amazing to hear and see the enthusiasm the students have for the school, their peers and teachers. 

The final term of year is a unique time in any school, as we begin to look towards the future whilst also remaining anchored in the present.  It is with this idea that we can draw a connection between the events of Term Four and the GWPS purpose of ‘developing individuals who are effective members of the community now and in the future’. 

One such event which springs to mind is the election of new Level Six Leaders for next year. Take some time to think about the key skills and lessons which are provided to our learners by going through the process of vying for a Level Six Leadership role.  For all children who go for a role, they gain exposure to high stakes writing and presentations when preparing and delivering speeches to the respective audiences. 

For those who are successful, they have the chance to enhance their leadership skills through opportunities provided to them the following year. However, for those who are unsuccessful in obtaining a leadership position there is still opportunity for learning albeit of a different kind.  The learning for these students will be on of resilience and bouncing back after a setback.  I am sure that all adults reading this piece would attest to the important skill of being able to deal with disappointment as we move through life.   

Over the next few weeks our Level Six students have the bitter sweet experience of graduating from primary school and moving on to secondary school.  In this time, they will celebrate the journey of the last seven years of their education and look forward to the next stage of their life. Again, this brings us back to another important life lesson, the inevitability of change.  In preparation for this, GWPS will provide the learners with the support and lessons that they need to help them cope with the emotions of this time. 

When we consider learning opportunities for children, it is important to think beyond just the academic side.  Through this we are able to effectively prepare the students for the inevitable challenges that they will face, thus preparing them to become effective members of the community now and in the future.