“This week I was reminded that students will remember this time long after they have forgotten what they learned during it, so be prepared to play the long game.” Mr Watson, Principal of NBCS. Click to read the full article.

This week I have really appreciated the air of calm that our students seem to exude. It is not that they aren’t taking things seriously, it’s that they know that they are being cared for and provided with the comfort of the familiar (in its best sense).

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

We don’t want our students to be scared about the future, rather we want them to be prepared for it. Preparing them for it is our job. We recognise that the future is uncertain. At times, that is a good, joyous and hope-filled thing. At times, it is hard and can seem hopeless. But we remain realists and purveyors of hope.

I am keen to share some principles from the Australian Psychological Society that help navigate natural disasters including bushfires. I trust that this may be of assistance for all of us as we prepare our students to face an uncertain world in a healthy manner and help them to know and manage themselves in it.