From the Heart; a Leadership Reflection
Teaching kindness in a world that doesn’t always reward it
As parents and educators, we often remind our kids to “be kind.” It’s one of the first lessons we teach, right alongside saying “please,” “thank you,” and sharing toys. But as our children grow, they begin to notice that kindness isn’t always modelled or rewarded the way we hope.
It’s easy to fear or judge those who are different; whether in appearance, belief, or behaviour, especially when society often encourages dominance over empathy. In many spaces, aggression is mistaken for strength, and compassion is seen as weakness.
What are we telling our kids when we allow these values to take hold? That it’s better to win than to care. That tearing others down is a path to success. That kindness is optional, or naive. But we know differently. We see the quiet power of kindness every day: when a child includes someone who’s left out, comforts a friend in need, or speaks up for what’s right. These small acts grow into deep-rooted courage and character.
Kindness isn’t about avoiding conflict, it’s about choosing compassion, even when it’s difficult. It’s about staying true to our values without stepping on others.
And our kids are watching us. How we speak to others, how we treat people we disagree with, and how we respond in challenging moments matters. If we want our children to value kindness, we need to show them what it looks like, especially when it’s hard.
Let’s raise children who understand that true strength lies in empathy. Because in a world that doesn’t always reward kindness, choosing it anyway is the boldest thing we can do.
Thank you to our wonderful Mother’s Day Stall volunteers!
A heartfelt thank you to our amazing parent representatives and all the volunteers who helped make this year’s Mother’s Day Stall such a HUGE success! Thanks to their time, effort, and generous spirit, we raised approximately $2,000, which will go directly towards supporting next year’s Evening on The Green. What an incredible achievement!
More than the dollars raised, though, was the joy on our children’s faces. Watching them proudly choose a special gift for their mum was truly priceless. Their smiles said it all, what a beautiful memory they’ve made.
We hope all the mums feel the love and care wrapped up in those little gifts. You deserve every bit of it!
We are so lucky to be part of such a kind, generous, and supportive community. Thank you again for making this event so special.
Our Mother’s Day raffle winners!
Congratulations to Matias Kopti (Pre-Primary) and Troy Hughes (Year 5) for winning lovely gifts for their mums in this year’s Mother’s Day raffle! We hope your mums enjoy these special surprises!
Term 2 After School Clubs
There will be a Special Edition Blog with details about Term 2 After School Clubs this Friday.
Icy Poles
A friendly reminder that icy poles will not be available for sale this week as our Captains are away on Camp.
Interhouse Cross Country Update – Tuesday 13 May
Would all Year 2 to 6 students please arrive at your class ready for the Interhouse Cross Country Carnival by 8.15am next Tuesday 13 May as we will be on a tight schedule.
Children’s University
I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday break and that there was some time to earn some hours towards the 2025 graduation event.
A reminder than passport stamping sessions are Thursday before school in the Primary Forum.
The following activity is from the CU portal – 150 second talent show challenge.
“Theatre artists are keen, creative and collaborative people who act, sing and dance whilst working hard to bring stories to life and entertain audiences. If this sounds like you, did you know you can study a Bachelor of Music Theatre?
Now it’s time to showcase your unique talents with a 150 second burst of creativity and fun. Think playing an instrument, sketching, karaoke, singing and dancing, magic moments or anything else that comes to mind.”
Record or write down the details of your talent show, let me know if 150 seconds longer or shorter than you imaged it would be? And design a flyer advertising your talent show to earn 1 hour towards your graduation.
2025 St Stephen’s School Foundation Event
The 2025 St Stephen’s School Foundation Event is here, Dancing at the Drill Hall. Enjoy a three-course meal, a five-hour drinks package and dance the night away while supporting a great cause.
Book now at https://events.humanitix.com/datdh