Making decisions together…

Where has this year gone? It is hard to believe that we are in August already.

Just this week, I have started the process of creating the timetable for the 2027 academic school year. One key ingredient for this task to come to fruition is knowing what subjects our students are interested in studying. Particularly, our senior students as their choices form the foundation for our school timetable.

In the coming weeks, students from Year 8 to 11 will be asked to make choices about their 2027 subjects and electives. While these decisions may appear to be individual choices, they are best made in the context of community.

One of the great strengths of a Christian school community is that we do not expect our young people to navigate decisions alone, especially important ones. Parents, teachers, our Heads of Year and our Pathways Co-ordinator all play an important role in assisting students to consider their strengths, their interests, and their future aspirations.

As parents, you know your children better than anyone. You can help them think carefully about what they enjoy, where they are growing, and where God may be leading them. At the same time, encourage them to listen to their teachers and seek advice from those who understand their learning needs and abilities.

The Bible also reminds us of the benefit of seeking wise advice:

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)

“As parents, you know your children better than anyone. You can help them think carefully about what they enjoy, where they are growing, and where God may be leading them.”

This verse is a beneficial guide, not just for subject selection, but for life in general. Good decisions are rarely made in isolation. Good decisions are strengthened when we listen, ask questions, consider different perspectives and pray for wisdom.

As a school, our hope is that students approach their subject and elective choices carefully rather than simply following their friends or choosing what appears easiest. Students should listen to the advice of trusted elders and pursue the areas of passion they have. It isn’t time to make a career choice, but these choices may well benefit future pursuits. We would like to see them develop confidence in making informed decisions whilst knowing that they are part of a community that cares about their growth and wellbeing.

As a school, we are committed to partnering with families throughout this process. As these forms arrive over the coming days and weeks, can we encourage you to take the time to discuss the thinking behind their choices, encourage them to seek advice, and pray together for wisdom and discernment.

Ultimately, our goal is not simply to help students choose subjects, but to help them become wise, responsible and Christ-centred decision makers who understand the importance of community.

Drew Roberts - Head of Secondary