Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care

Welcome back to another exciting year at SPJC. I look forward to many happenings around the College which will allow our students to grow academically, spiritually, physically and socially. The students were spoken to at our College Assembly last week with regard to belonging to our school community and the responsibility that comes with that. A reminder was given regarding suitable haircuts, acceptable jewellery and the wearing of the correct college uniform at all times. These school guidelines can be located in the school diary and were agreed upon by parents and students upon enrolment.

School uniforms play a key role in promoting pride, self-confidence, and a feeling of belonging within the student body. These factors contribute to students' wellbeing.

School uniforms mean that all students wear the same clothing, helping to level out the playing field. This removes any preconceived ideas about what to wear, allowing for greater group cohesion and commonality. As a result, uniforms demonstrate a clear message of equality.

We are all aware that students have rights and with these rights comes responsibilities. We are all responsible for our level of self discipline. Self discipline can allow us to stay focused on our goals. It enables us to stay in control of ourselves and of our reaction to any situation. Self-discipline is like a muscle: the more we train it, the stronger we become. Lack of self-discipline can cause low self-esteem.

Our Year 7 students had a wonderful start last week and it was extremely pleasing to see that they were all complying to school policy towards hair, jewellery and uniform. When our young students see the older students adhering to these guidelines it generates a sense of pride and identity within the student body.

You can feel school pride as soon as you walk in the school gates. It might mean different things to different people but, for most students, it translates as a feeling of strong connection to the school or being proud to represent the school and the values it stands for. School pride is an important part of building a successful school community. We are very fortunate to learn and work in a beautiful environment and the current renovations accentuate this further.

Please feel free to contact me or your child’s Homeroom Teacher or Leader of Student Wellbeing should you have any questions regarding pastoral care at SJPC.

Until next time: