From the Senior School

From the Head of Senior School

Cultivating Kindness and Care

This week we enjoyed a Senior School assembly and spoke about the power of a kind community. As we navigate through this academic year, it’s important to remember the power of kindness and the profound impact it can have on our community. Kindness is not just an act; it is a way of being, a philosophy that shapes how we interact with ourselves and others. As senior students, our girls are leaders and role models and can set a great example to their younger peers. Their actions set the tone for the entire school, and by fostering an environment of care and compassion, can leave a lasting legacy.

Henry David Thoreau once said, “Happiness is like a butterfly; the more you chase it, the more it will evade you, but if you notice the other things around you, it will gently come and sit on your shoulder.” This wisdom reminds us that by focusing on kindness and mindfulness, we can cultivate a sense of happiness and fulfilment that naturally enriches our lives and the lives of those around us.

Kindness to Yourself

Taking care of yourself is the first step towards being able to care for others. It’s essential to prioritise your wellbeing amidst the pressures of academic work, extracurricular activities, and future planning. Here are some ways to practise self-kindness:

Self-Care Routine: Establish a routine that includes activities you enjoy and that relax you. This could be anything from reading a book, taking a walk, or practising a hobby.
Healthy Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and ensure you’re not overwhelming yourself with too many commitments.
Mindfulness and Reflection: Take time to reflect on your experiences and feelings. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or journaling, can help you stay grounded and focused.

Kindness to Friends

We often encourage the Senior girls to broaden their friendship networks and consider making connections with other students outside of their immediate group. This is great to build community, and the interpersonal skills that are so needed today. Your friends are your support network, and nurturing these relationships is crucial. Show kindness to your friends through:

Active Listening: Be present when your friends need to talk. Sometimes, just being there and listening can make a huge difference. Equally, if a friend shares feelings which might be overwhelming for both of you, thank them for their trust and explain that you need the further support of a trusted adult such as a parent or teacher. It is important to remember that there are some concerns that do you might need further advice about and that is not a betrayal, but courageous care.
Encouragement and Support: Celebrate your friends’ successes and offer a helping hand during challenging times. Your support can motivate and uplift them.
Random Acts of Kindness: Small gestures, like a kind note or a thoughtful message, can brighten someone’s day and strengthen your bond.

Kindness to Teachers

Our teachers play a pivotal role in our education and personal growth. Showing appreciation and kindness to them fosters a positive and respectful learning environment:

Respect and Courtesy: Simple acts of politeness, such as saying thank you or greeting them warmly, show your appreciation.
Feedback and Communication: Constructive feedback and open communication help build a collaborative atmosphere. Let your teachers know when their efforts positively impact you, or if you need further assistance in mastering a skill or concept.
Patience and Understanding: Remember that teachers also have challenges and stressors. Being patient and understanding goes a long way in creating a supportive community.

Building a Culture of Care

As your daughter continues her journey at our school, remember that kindness and care are not just individual acts but part of a broader culture. By practising kindness daily, we can all contribute to a positive, inclusive, and compassionate school environment. These actions inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond our school walls.

Thoreau’s words remind us that happiness comes from noticing the beauty and opportunities for kindness around us. Let’s commit to making our school a place where kindness and care are at the forefront of everything we do. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and loved.

New Leaders Announcement

We had all the excitement of learning about our new student leadership team for 2024/25. Congratulations to all the Captains of Sport, Performing Arts and Co-Curricular activities. Congratulations too to our newly announced student leaders in the Prefect body. I have every confidence that our College is in great hands, as our Year 12 2025 group prepares to move alongside our graduating Year 12 students in leading their younger peers. There will be a Year 12 Badge Ceremony next term for parents to attend to witness their daughters receiving their Year 12 badges and leadership pockets.

Senior School Knit In

We warmly invite all parents, grandparents and carers to come along to our annual Knit In in the Senior School on Friday 14 June, from 12:45pm – 2:00pm. Please bring your knitting needles and wool to help us knit up a storm for Wrap with Love over a warm cup of tea or coffee. We all appreciate your support of this amazing charity, which supplies warm blankets for those in need in Australia and overseas.

Term 2 Key Dates

14 June – Senior School Wrap with Love Knit-In

28 June – Term 2 concludes

From the Secondary School Parent Group

Hi Year 11 parents! A reminder that the Trivia Night is coming up very soon at the end of next week on
Saturday 22 June. Could you help donate a gift for our homes hamper?

Year 11 are making hampers ‘for the home’ so it would be great if you would consider dropping off an item to the Senior School office such as candles, cushions, picture frames – it would be much appreciated.
Or if easier, please contribute to the GroupTogether by clicking here.

Thank you so much everyone!

Nikki Wyse

Head of Senior School