11 November 2022

Six years or so ago, I studied Positive Psychology for a couple of years. This is where the seeds for our foundation in Positive Education were sewn. As part of the study, I had to focus on a particular area - I decided on language, words, what we say and how we say it!


I've had some fun with this ever since and, as a consequence, the staff have undertaken quite extensive professional learning around this with me. Like a lot of study - it's there but needs to be frequently prompted and, on occasions, encouraged to surface from the darker recesses of my brain! Especially so when the 'going gets tough!'


To summarise my learning around language, I created a poster titled 'Encouraging a Community to Flourish'. Very simply, this showcases key phrases pulled from a good deal of research and theory. The poster sits on the wall of my office as a reminder.

  • "Focus on What's Right"

  • "Make every conversation count"

  • "Words create Worlds"

  • "Leadership is a conversation"

On some days, I find myself sitting in my office and, as I'm tap, tap, tapping away and with a glance over my left shoulder, I'm reminded of what I need to do or, rather, how I need to be.


I know we will be focusing on what's right come Sunday. There will be SO MUCH RIGHT! There will be people who can't show up, there may be nachos that are over flavoured (Promise I will keep them family friendly!), there may be tickets blown away or a bit of a shower (please stay away!), and with so much spirit and energy, brainpower, whanaungatanga, leadership and sense of community... the first Worser Bay School Fair since 2019 is already a winner!


So, to all of you parents and staff, especially Nancy and the Fair Team, thank you for your enthusiasm, manaakitanga and sheer grit in pulling this mammoth event together.


The first school on the Peninsula, standing proud at 125 and growing 'whole' children who achieve great things.... and the contribution of the fun and funds raised at the School Fair being a terrific example of all of the layers which make our place a special place to be a part of and a wonderfully rich place to learn and grow.


Let's make every conversation count, keep focusing on what's right and just have a mighty good time this weekend!