Our student community is to be commended for maintaining a focussed and dedicated approach toward their studies in the midst of an unsettled wider community. Despite the imposition of Covid-related protocols, increased awareness of international conflict and general social unrest, students have exhibited wonderful resilience, maintaining a focussed and steady approach to their life at school.
As Term One comes to completion and our school community heads into the holiday period, it is an opportunity for each student to pause for a time of reflection on their Term One efforts, and then, to plan with purpose for the term that lies ahead. Self-reflection is a prime skill and simple but effective questions that can be asked include:
- In Term One, did I set realistic goals?
- Did I keep my goals in focus?
- Did I work my hardest?
- What have I learnt about myself in Term One?
- What do I need to change for Term Two?
- What do I want to achieve in Term Two?
- What was my contribution to my School community this term?
A mindset that practises reflection and self-examination will facilitate personal growth and success. Time taken to affirm existing aspirations or to establish a new direction or set of goals will be time well spent.
As well, during the holidays, take time to consider Easter and its affirming message for each of us. This message is summarised for us in our St. Stephen’s School crest which incorporates the symbols of The Uniting Church in Australia.
- The Cross speaks of Christ’s sacrifice on behalf of our sin and bears witness to the limitless love of God for each of us.
- The Thorns of our Lord speak of Christ’s willingness to suffer derision and martyrdom.
- The Bowl speaks of service to the world.
- The Sunrise represents the resurrection of Jesus and the promise of eternal life.
- The Dove reminds us that because of Jesus, we have peace with God.
- The Flames of Pentecostal fire indicate the active presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of our School.
It is hoped, that as we reflect upon these symbols of God’s love toward us, we will continue to live out our school motto to “Serve God, Serve One Another”.
Stephen Meagher (Deputy Head of Secondary)
SPOTLIGHT ON READING
Researcher, Dr Judith Seaboyer says that unless the cognitive skills required for deep reading are developed and nurtured, new generations of readers may not learn to venture beyond the shallows of the reading experience.
‘When you immerse yourself in a book, the neuroscience tells us that what happens in the brain is a little bit like what happens when you meditate. It actually helps us to relax and to think and to move into some kind of other space. It’s not an escapist space, but it’s an enriching space.’
From ‘Adults Engaging in Reading for Pleasure’ Teacher Magazine (03.07.2022)
Amanda Roberts
PROPEL PROGRAM
Carramar’s Propel Program launched with Year 11 students taking part in sessions with Principal Donella Beare and Head of Campus Brett Roberts about effective leadership, culture and legacy. They also spent time with former Propel participants who discussed how the program prepared them for their leadership roles in Year 12. The launch was the start of the program’s workshop sessions across Term 2 and 3 which will focus on communication, group dynamics, conflict negotiation and event planning.
Craig Thomas
ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Last week the Yr 7 and Yr 8 Athlete Development program students had their first session with Athletic Institute instructors. A series of functional movement tests were conducted that will provide the basis for their upcoming training programs. Next term will see the students venture out to the AI facility where they will begin learning about how to condition their bodies for the demands of their sports.
Craig Thomas
COOKING FOR THE SALVOS
The delicious smell of home-cooked spaghetti bolognese wafted through Carramar’s Tech Hub last week when Year 9s took to the kitchen to cook up meals for The Salvation Army WA Doorways Program. A big thank you to SecondBite for donating the ingredients!
********************************************************************************************
