The Mazenod Gazette

From the Executive

Find A Way

“If you really want to do something you will find a way. If you don’t you’ll find an excuse” Jim Rohn

 

As we come to the conclusion of another school year I find myself reflecting on the above quote which became very much a central focus to our decision making as we navigated the changing complexities of continuing on with teaching, learning and all other facets of school life. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone in the Mazenod Community that found creative ways to continue on with their important work and learning throughout another challenging year.

 

Finding a way was never more evident with the postponed Year 7 camp taking place this week - the last of the school year. It was great that the students were able to experience a fantastic outdoor education experience after missing out on such opportunities at Primary School. The pictures below are symbolic of some of the key character strengths that were very visible on camp - that of teamwork, perseverance and bravery. Also, it was terrific to see so many examples of students displaying leadership, especially during the group activities.

                      

2021 was the first year of our Visible Wellbeing journey with a focus on Character Strengths and how they can be utilised to enhance and improve wellbeing. In the latter parts of 2020, all staff attended Professional Learning in Visible Wellbeing and the first module on Strengths.  This was followed up with Emotional Management in July.

 

Before the start of 2022, staff will have engaged in further training in other parts of the SEARCH framework – Attention, Awareness and Relationships.

 

Listed below are just some of the achievements and changes in practice that have occurred during the first year of implementation, and which we are particularly proud of:-

  • Staff Professional Development: Introduction Module - Character Strengths-Emotional Management - Attention and Awareness
  • Development of a Staff Implementation Team (28 members)
  • All staff and students completed the VIA Character Strengths and Awareness of Signature Strengths modules
  • Development of Visible Well Being resources on MazCom
  • Introduction of a "Character Strength of the Week" - highlighting each of the VIA Character Strengths throughout the year
  • Staff members launching the weekly character strength at Staff Briefings and developing resources
  • Character Strengths made visible in classrooms, learning spaces and other areas via newsfeeds, posters and audiovisual monitors throughout the College
  • Students Reflecting on Character Strengths to develop goals in their E-Portfolio
  • A Parent Information Session in May with Professor Lea Waters
  • Pre Implementation Survey for Staff and Students to gain baseline data to monitor the impact of the SEARCH framework
  • Visible Wellbeing language and promotion at Assemblies, Mass, in Classes, Staff Meetings and when communicating

We look forward with hope for 2022 and may the Christmas period be a time of peace and joy.

 

 

 

Mr Tim Ford

Deputy Principal - Students