Encouraging words can make a real difference!

My French teacher from back in the day gave this quote to our class, “Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself”. She went on to tell us all that we could be anything we wanted, that she was there to help shape not only our language skills, but also our characters. She really showed us she believed in us in every action and comment she made. I am sure we can all think of wonderful and impactful teachers we had during our time at school.

The latter part of this quote resonates with me as I have the privilege of visiting classrooms and co-curricular activities as part of my role. I see students grappling with ideas and grabbing opportunities. In order to ‘create oneself’ we need to first step up and out to try new things. The role of a teacher is to support, encourage, challenge, and guide each student so that they grow the confidence that is seen as a normal part of learning. I am confident our teachers at St. Peter’s place students at the centre of their teaching to ensure students are focused on quality curriculum as they stretch themselves in their daily learning. I have seen evidence of this in the classes I have been in where teachers have been utilising various strategies to help students engage with exam preparation.

A quote from Napoleon Hill states, “Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle.” It’s interesting in talking with students that they do want to be challenged and helping our youth develop the skills of a strong work ethic where persistence is required when learning gets tough is essential. Life is not always easy and normalising this so that our students expect struggle and grapple to be part of what we all learn to manage is a key requisite for a happy and successful life.

This week, as I have attended the various assemblies and chapels, I have noted just how many of our students are growing and some who I know have had to put in significant effort to achieve what they have. For example, our performing arts students, our sports and cultural students, those students who stand up and read our school prayer or a blessing - I hope you are seeing moments of their success through our social media channels.

George J, a Year 12 student, spoke this week about his journey in student volunteering, advising students that stepping out of their comfort zone was part of life and that they should look for these opportunities every day – an inspiring message for our students to hear. It was fantastic to see so many of our students then being awarded their bronze, silver and gold student volunteer badges. Another example of students putting in effort to give service to others. We really appreciate all those staff who support students carrying out this community service work alongside the leadership of Mrs McCarthy, our school Chaplain.

The growth I see in our students every day is inspiring and I am so proud of them all. I am sure we have many proud parents – thank you for all the support and guidance you give to your children as you partner with us.

Best wishes to our Year 7 and 8 students who head to AIMS games under the leadership of Mr Taylor, and well done to our Tournament players for this week’s efforts!

Nga mihi

Julie Small

Campus Principal