Belonging…
Monday morning was a busy and exciting time as students returned and new students began.
For some, it was a big change, making that first tentative step into a new school community. For others, the excitement of seeing friends again carried them through the school gate.
Joining or re-connecting with a community of any sort prompts the question – ‘what does it mean to belong?’
The uniform is perhaps the most obvious sign of belonging in a school community. I had a number of new parents tell me how excited their children were to have the new school uniform and to try it on and how eager they were to wear it on Monday. I know not all of us love the idea of uniform and we may have our own thoughts about the form of the uniform, but it does provide an immediate way of saying ‘I belong to this community’.
“On Monday, I encouraged our students to not only consider what they ‘gain’ from community but also how they might contribute to it. ”
A second sign of belonging is simply being here. Regular attendance and the effort to be present, both for your own education and for the sake of our friends, is a critical point of connection. As students attend, and attend regularly, they build up a consistency and strength of relationship with teachers and peers that will be a support in more challenging times.
On Monday, I encouraged our students to not only consider what they ‘gain’ from community but also how they might contribute to it. There are opportunities to give, to serve and to contribute to the lives of others that will ultimately build community but also build our connection to it. Jesus provides that ultimate model of self-sacrificial giving that prefers others above ourselves. He reminds us that our ultimate sense of self and worth is found not in others, but in a relationship with Him.
A strong sense of belonging has many positive outcomes for students’ sense of self, their relationships, education, and ultimately their broader wellbeing. It was wonderful to see the way that families celebrated the start of the school year. When I asked a group of our students in a Monday morning assembly, how many had their parents taking photos on Monday morning, it would have easily been 60% or more. Welcome to our School community in 2026. I look forward to celebrating our community with you this year.
Scott Ambrose - Principal
