It’s the little things

CHOOSING TO BE GRATEFUL NO MATTER WHAT

BY KRISTY KENDALL Principal

Each and every one of us is a product of the experiences we’ve had–our successes, our failures, our struggles and our achievements. So how have the past two years shaped our young people and what are we, as educators, seeing within them?

Through the use of our Flourishing program, our students in Year 7-12 undertake a self report survey twice a year. It allows them to consider their own emotions, sense of purpose and meaningfulness, their sleep, exercise and nutrition and other environmental factors. This not only helps our students to reflect and find a language for what they are experiencing, but it allows us as a School to track changes over time, both in individuals and as a community. As a School that values the uniqueness of every individual, we do not just rely on the numbers and data in front of us when interpreting these profiles, we know there is always a story behind it. After completing the survey, every student then has a one-on-one conversation with a teacher to probe a little deeper, ask them questions about their profile and to set future goals. We ask ourselves, what have we learnt through our quantitative and qualitative measures during our last Flourishing cycle?

In a nutshell, we can see that our students have become more grateful, prouder of themselves and better able to overcome adversity. If we are shaped by our experiences then we can see new patterns emerging in our young people. It will be a wonderful journey to see what they choose to do with these new skills next.

In a nutshell, we can see that our students have become more grateful, more proud of themselves and more able to overcome adversity.

1

GRATITUDE

Our students reflected that they have taken so many things for granted for such a long time. They reflect now that the opportunity to come to school and connect with friends, something once considered a given, is now something they appreciate. Having a lens into their teachers’ lives, more of an understanding of the intricacies of managing public health and opportunity, and more and more visibility around decision making has also led to a greater appreciation of the complexities that exist all around them. They are more aware and showing that through extending their gratitude to others.

2

PRIDE

Our students have articulated that they are being easier on themselves and finding a sense of pride in small things. Whether that be stepping up to compete in a House event, or finishing a test after attempting every question, they are learning that everything they accomplish, no matter how small, is something to be proud of.

3

ADVERSITY

While many of our students reported an increase in their negative emotions, it was the story behind the data that was most fascinating. They have experienced more lows, yes, but they are moving through them faster. They are experiencing that true sense of resilience in being able to bounce back. This time has allowed them to really flex that resilience muscle and they have become increasingly proficient at moving past negative thoughts.