Principal's Report
‘Where the learning experience develops abilities for life’
On Tuesday afternoon, I spent an hour sitting in on a rehearsal for the upcoming major production 'Before Upon a Time'!
Some of my observations included:
- Fifteen students from Years 7-11 blocking a section of the production
- Students building sets
- Energy and focus on a task
- Senior students mentoring their younger peers
- Students listening to advice and acting on the tips
- Comradery and having fun
On Sunday afternoon, I was privileged to assist in a workshop day, preparing for the production.
What an experience to observe and assist at times, up to 100 students from Years 7-12, parents, volunteers, old scholars and staff all engaged in a variety of activities that included:
- Sewing costumes of various styles and colours
- Practicing applying make-up and hair styles
- Applying paints to sets and decorating props
- Practising dance routines, others rehearsing lines
- Parents and staff preparing food to sustain the energy of the students
- Scrubbing floors, converting the work space back to a gymnasium
- Cleaning paint brushes, emptying buckets and clearing away rubbish
What understandings and abilities for life were being learnt in the small snapshots I observed?
- Collaboration and teamwork within groups, across age groups, culture, gender
- The importance of being part of a community and contributing to it
- Valuing and appreciating the range of skill sets and abilities of others
- Mentoring and supporting others
- Revelling in physical and sometimes dirty work
- An understanding that there is a cause bigger than individuals
- Creativity
- Valuing that perseverance and persistence can produce great outcomes
- Encouragement and taking responsibility
These life skills (often referred to as ‘soft skills’, though I’m not sure I agree) are often overlooked in the education of young people but are now recognised as essential skills for our children as they prepare for their future.
In my capacity as a principal, a parent and a teacher, I was impressed and extremely proud of the efforts and engagement of each and every student involved. As parents of these students, you should also be proud of their achievements, their attitude and commitment to this production. Their efforts skills and talent will contribute to a wonderful production.
Tickets are now on sale! Come along and see the product of the hard work that the many members of our community are contributing to – it is sure to be a lot of fun and full of action and highlights!
I look forward to seeing you and your friends and family at the show!
Blessings
Heather Vogt
Principal
For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:9