Beating the Confidence Gap

In a world where confidence matters as much as competence, it is our role to continually model behaviours of strength, pride, and imperfection to our students, so they are empowered to feel innately comfortable in their own skin. We want our students to be proud of who they are and what they bring to the table, and to share with us the talents and skills that they invest their time in.

It is undeniable that from an early age, girls, in particular, begin to doubt their abilities, start negative self-talk, and detrimentally compare themselves to their peers. In a bid to mitigate these occurrences, we embed programs and experiences into our day to ensure that our girls can acknowledge the achievements of themselves and others.

Five ways that the Junior School implicitly and explicitly embeds confidence in our students are;

1. Each morning in the Wardle House turning circle, each student is seen, smiled at and greeted by name.

Allowing each of our children to be acknowledged and welcomed each morning helps students know that they are valued, and encourages them to communicate with adults.

2. Providing opportunities for public speaking.

Weekly Share Assemblies provide an opportunity for students to share their learnings with the entire Junior School and our community. It is the expectation that all students contribute in some way and take turn to present to the audience.

3. Achievements are recognised in formal assemblies.

At the beginning and end of each term, Prep - Year 6 students participate in formal assemblies to acknowledge student leaders as well as academic and sustained achievement. Accepting a certificate on stage ensures that students have the opportunity to practise shaking hands with an adult, looking them in the eye, and showing gratitude on stage in front of a large audience.

4. Learning from mistakes without dwelling on them.

Goal setting is a consistent component of our program that allows students to accept that they are not expected to master a skill in their first attempt. It is accepted that errors are a natural part of the learning process, and in order to attain a new skill, a series of mistakes will occur. It is through the growth process that we improve and consistently better ourselves and the people around us.

5. Taking pride in our presentation.

A uniform represents belonging. As students arrive in their uniform each day, it is an expectation that they wear it correctly and with pride as they represent the Toorak College community.

Miss Melissa Schoorman - Head of Wardle House, Deputy Principal