Message from Grant Andrews, Acting Head of Junior School

Dear Junior and Pre-school families,

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow’.” – Mary Anne Radmacher

We have officially completed our first full week of the school year, and what an absolutely fantastic start we have had. It has been wonderful to see students settling swiftly into routines, making new friends and diving into learning.

A particular highlight for us this week has been welcoming Kindergarten onsite for their very first few days of school. It has been delightful to watch them step into our School gates, the classrooms and the playground with incredible courage. We hope that this is the start (or in some cases, the continuation) of lifelong connections and friendships, and countless amazing memories to be made along the way. View our photo gallery here.

Thank you to all parents who attended the Parent Information Evening on Wednesday. We trust that the opportunity to gather as a School and as a cohort to hear about what this year holds in store for your child was greatly beneficial. It is always a great opportunity to meet the members of your child’s teaching team and, of course, to connect with other parents. A special thank you to those of you who have gone out of your way to make our newest Junior School families and carers feel welcome. A copy of the handouts from last night’s event can be found in your son’s year level tab on Cranbrook Connect.

We look forward to the full range of our programmes coming to life in Week 3 as we forge with earnest into the term ahead. A few reminders regarding what’s coming up next week:

• Before and after school Co-curricular commences
• Morning and afternoon sports training commences
• Wednesday, 12 February – Year 6 Student Leaders’ Assembly 12pm – 1pm in JS Gym
• Thursday, 13 February – Judith Locke Presentation to Kindy and new parents 12.30pm – 2pm

Dr Judith Locke is a registered clinical psychologist specialising in modern parenting, family wellbeing and academic environments, as well as a former teacher and school counsellor. Her practical strategies help parents and teachers assist children to become confident and capable as they develop their maturity and independence. Judith primarily works with schools and educational organisations around Australia and internationally, delivering keynotes, training and information sessions about the best ways to improve children’s wellbeing in a time when parenting and schooling has changed significantly from previous generations. She also has a clinical private practice in Brisbane, Australia. Judith has written the bestselling books for parents, The Bonsai Child and The Bonsai Student. Both give practical and effective strategies to build children’s resilience, confidence and capability in the home and in their schooling.  She has recently published Raising Anxiety with Dr Danielle Einstein, which discusses how our good intentions may inadvertently make children more anxious, and then practical strategies to turn this around.

Warm regards,

Grant Andrews
Acting Head of Junior School