But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. — 2 Peter 3:18
Gradual change and growth can be difficult to see. I have been thinking about this idea as I have been watching the courtyard transform, thinking about our Year 10s leaving and seeing two of our Year 10s in our Primary School for their Work Experience. The courtyard has moved from an unstable, stark, unwelcoming environment through a muddy expanse to a progressing, quality expanse.
At the writing of this article, there is still more to be done. At times, to my untrained eye, it has looked like progress has nearly stopped. However, on closer inspection, seeing drainage going in under the surface and careful preparation for turf, concrete furniture, quality is evident, and anticipation rises. A lot of work has gone in under the surface and behind the scenes. I’ll be reflecting more on our Year 10s during the term and closer to the end of the year. Suffice to say here that it would have been difficult 12 years ago to see how far these young people would come and to see what they have accomplished. We have seen the school values of courage, integrity, and respect come alive in our students. These values were magnified in what I saw of our students here on work experience as capable young adults in their own capacity.
There have been times in the Year 10s life at school where like the courtyard, all that has gone on under the surface will not be particularly celebrated. It contributes to the bigger picture and the building of a quality ‘end product’. We want our young people prepared for life beyond school, as life long learners and equipped to take on life’s constant changes and challenges. We are accomplishing this, and we see the fruits in the successes our students are having in the years after leaving our outstanding school. Just like we expect the courtyard to be a valuable asset for our students years into the future, Emmanuel alumni will be making a difference in the community all their lives. All the planning, lessons, assemblies, tears, laughter and even detentions, have contributed to where our students are – six weeks away from graduating.
Scot Winkler — Principal