Head of School’s Comment

We have continued to explore the value of Respect since the start of the year and will continue until the end of this term. We have explored respect for the environment and school grounds, respect in our uniform and manner, respect for our teachers and other adults, respect on the sporting field and presently we are focusing on having respect for the quality of work that we produce. Like many of the lessons we learn growing up it takes time to embody as part of our automatic process of being part of a supportive community. I do believe though that our students are well on their way in this journey.

The difference between John Colet and many other schools is that we actively look to ensure all teachers, staff, volunteers, and parents model our values. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to take a philosophy class this week with our Year 3 boys. We are beginning with essential rules in life with the goal of coming to agreement on what could be a rule to cover them all. The Golden Rule shared in some form by all religions comes down to treating each other like we would like to be treated. As adults this is a good one to keep in mind as we model respect towards our children. We like to be listened to, we like to be taken seriously and we do not like to be shouted at or have our ideas dismissed. It is not easy, requires much empathy and patience, yet it is worth the time to ensure we model respect if that is what we want our children to embody.

One word which sums up the basis of all good conduct &.loving kindness. Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself. Confucius, Analects 15.23

Julian Wilcock
Headmaster