Message from the Principal
From the Principal - Mr David Smith
Keeping it ‘Real’ in the Journey to Adulthood
In this modern era of fake news, cyber bullying and instant information, parents and schools must work together to help our children make authentic connections with our world. As a Principal I believe that we have a vital role at keeping it real for young people of all ages and assisting in promoting a positive and healthy perspective on life.
Let Kids Be Kids
Today the world is changing so fast, there is so much going on and the world around is complex, serious and so fast. Life can feel like one big blur, causing all sorts of pressures and anxiety. The pervasiveness of news, big data and constant updates means that there is the temptation to be overwhelmed by it all. There is pressure on children to grow up too quickly, to be always connected to technology 24/7 and to be constantly interacting with those around them at a sophisticated and adult level. I ask myself sometimes, where is the joy in childhood and being young?
I am a strong believer in the idea that young people need time and space to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, rather than just the complex ones. There is great joy in chatting and laughing with a group of friends, kicking a ball, climbing on play equipment, engaging in group activities, contesting a board game or getting involved in hands on activities in the classroom. I love observing that enthusiasm of students of all ages as they display their zest for life and demonstrate the curiosity to explore, learn and try different things. The passion of such moments is energising. The sounds of enjoyable activity should be an important aspect of school life and that of childhood.
The role of technology
At times technology promotes engagement, learning and positive play. Children and teens have so much access to helpful and productive content and information, at their fingertips. There are great benefits for both learning and recreation, when used appropriately. At other times it can be unhelpful, and a growing body of research is indicating that excess is unhealthy for developing minds. Like anything, a balance is needed and there is a very strong case to switch off devices at times, ensuring that face to face interaction and communication is part of the regular routine. (During this break I am reading David Gillespie’s current book, Teen Brain, on screens and their impact.) In schools, I believe it is up to the adults to assist in the development of healthy frameworks and clear boundaries to assist appropriate growth. This applies to parents and teachers. I am a strong advocate for the benefits of sport, playing board games, getting out into God’s beautiful world and in spending time talking face-to-face with loved ones and friends.
Being the Adults
As adults, we encourage our young people to enjoy life and to be safe, whether it be safe partying (with five or eighteen-year olds – though the challenges are age-dependant!) or taking safe risks in play and recreation. We want life to be enjoyable but occasionally it means saying NO or limiting some activities. It is one of the ways that parents and teachers demonstrate that we care. We know that young people will push boundaries and that this is part of the process of gradually growing in independence over time. Experience tells me that they can be coached through the mistakes they will make (and during adolescence there will be plenty), by taking responsibility for their actions. Our communication with them, both as parents and teachers, will shape their character as they grow towards adulthood. Helping them to learn resilience to do the hard things is part of this.
Much of what I have written is what our Calrossy School community does very well and it is clearly evident when I meet with the wonderful alumni produced by our School. I am delighted that we work together as parents and teachers to support the growth of great human beings. It is a joint responsibility for us all to provide our young people with the support and a compass from P – 12 to safely navigate and understand the world in which they live. Growing a culture of support helps them not just to survive, but thrive, which is what we are all about as a school.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119: 105
David Smith
Principal