When we speak of learning at Brisbane Adventist College, we allude to two factors: influence and growth. We not only address a child’s ability to process cognitively, and problem-solve, but also devote our efforts to character development; particularly around our values of integrity and respect, the basis of strong relationships for which God created us.
When relationships are strong, students feel safe, they operate in joy, and where there is joy, there is belonging.
"A child’s future trajectory, along with their desire to be curious in their exploration of the world, can be completely modified if they find a place to belong," says Australian author Bernii Godwin in Loving Our Students on Purpose: Building a Culture of Joy, Responsibility & Connection (1). With 20 years' worth of experience in social work and post-graduate study in child development and neuropsychology, Godwin discusses why ‘connection’ is the strongest neurological factor fuelling a child’s wellbeing and academic success at school.
This year, our theme has been ‘Living in the Overflow.’ It forms the basis of our spiritual and wellbeing programs and was inspired by taking a candid look at the culture of school and society after two years of Covid. With many students (and staff!) feeling stretched thin and depleted, it was hard to feel like we were living in the overflow of “living water” offered by Jesus. "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10)
We understand that there will always be things in life that fill and drain us. It is our goal to cultivate a sense of wellbeing and belonging within every student – helping them experience the joy of ‘overflow’ and become the whole person God intends them to be, even to the point where others around them will feel their ‘splash’. We start by making this school a place to belong.
(1) Bernii Godwin and Danny Silk, Loving Our Students on Purpose: Building a Culture of Joy, Responsibility & Connection (Shippensburg, CA: Destiny Image, 2022)
Principal's First Principles is a series of editorials by Brisbane Adventist College Principal Mr Peter Charleson.
