17 September 2004

A school is as strong as its community

Dear Parents, 

As a school we have been debating the idea of excellence of late.  Aristotle (Greek philosopher 384-322BC), described excellence as a habit.  One of his sayings sits above my office door …

“We are what we repeatedly do. 
Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.”

In Paul's letter to Titus, ch3 vs3-11, we are reminded of a very important aspect to excellence … “doing what is good.”  We often relate excellence to quality of ‘product’, ‘output’ and ‘profit’.  These are financial or material aspects to excellence.  But, our conduct and attitudes must be excellent … “Those who have trusted in God must be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.  These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.”

In 2 Corinthians 8 we are again reminded that in excelling we must look beyond ourselves.  “But as you excel in everything - in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us - see that you also excel in the grace of giving.”

We need to encourage excellence in our children in all things … and we need to do it as a natural part of the day.  We want them to strive to do their best in all things … this is excellence in attitude.  We also need to guard against the thrust for excellence becoming a narrow focus on self - we need to develop excellence in attitude towards others and God.

Final comments … Paul Holmes some months ago carried out a shallow but fascinating ‘survey on the street’, asking parents what they wanted for their children.  Nearly all said, “I want my children to be happy.”  What an interesting response.  As Christians we need to look at this concept of ‘happiness’ and not be too shallow about it.  If we teach our children to love God and to love others surely they will be happy … the focus then is not a self-absorbed pursuit of happiness.  The happiness is a by-product of obeying God’s command.  I want my kids to be good … loving God and others, and from this will come happiness and contentment.  Encourage your kids to step back from the self-absorbed pursuit of happiness.

Everyone have a happy holiday and we look forward to seeing parents and children again next term.

John Stackhouse, Head of Primary School

Primary School Uniform

Reminder to Year 6 parents that pupils must wear the Primary School uniform in Term 4.  If there is a real need as to why the Primary dress for Year 6 girls cannot be purchased the school has available for hire a limited number.  The bond is $25 and hireage is $30.  These are only available for those families who are unable to purchase a new or second hand one for a valid reason.  Please apply in writing to Associate Principal, Richard Vanderpyl, prior to the start of Term 4.

Congratulations … Australian Maths Results

FANTASTIC is a word which describes our best results ever in the Australian Maths competition.  Congratulations to …

Year 6  Distinction (Top 10%)  Simon J, Sophie P, Deborah P, Haeun S, Erin W

  Credit  Anna B, Joshua H, David M, Sam P

Year 5  Distinction   Rowan H, Jessica J, Samuel W

  Credit  James C, Joshua C, Jacqui F, Geoffrey I, Ellie J, Grace M, Jonathan R, Isla S

Year 4  Distinction  Joshua G, Mark J

  Credit  Danielle H

Out of 66 children who sat the test 10 distinctions and 13 credits is an excellent result.

Certificate Presentations

All children who have received distinctions or credits in Australian Maths and Computer tests will receive their certificates next Term at our Primary School Assembly on Wednesday 6 October.  Parents are invited to attend.

Thanks to Parents

Our thanks to another parent who regularly helps in the school … Mrs Celia Reid.  Celia is regularly in the school and we greatly appreciate her assistance!  Also to Steve Bensberg who has undertaken the leadership of the PTBA and is instrumental in the organisation of the Fiesta for next term … our thanks!

Special thanks to ...

Carolyn Kaye (chief organiser), Rebecca Higgs, Shona Burton, Chris Martin (co-motion, entertainment), Pam & Graham Forbes (providers of a wonderful Mark 1 Zephyr convertible), Matt Williams, Mike McCormack, David Kaye and all other parent helpers … for making the Year 5/6 1950’s evening such a roaring success!  WELL DONE!  See the photos below.

"In thy light shall we see light." 
                                        Psalm 36:9

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