As we come to the end of 2022…It is that time of the year when I have the honour of proofreading students’ reports. It is such an encouragement to read about the growth that teachers have witnessed in so many spheres. I have also really enjoyed reading Year 4 students’ reflections about their learning and aspirations for next year in the general comments. I am impressed with their maturity as they articulated their learning growth areas and their learning goals for 2023. These ranged from a student learning their timetables to a another being able to sing in front of an audience in Peter Pan. Tomorrow, we welcome in December. Students commenced the Learn to Swim Program this week, and we are looking forward to all the fun the end-of-year events, including our Thanksgiving Service. 2022 has been a wonderful year of improvement, growth, stability, transformation and blessings. As we draw closer to the end of the school year, it is fitting for me to reflect on the year that has been and simultaneously contemplate all that 2023 holds. Our theme for 2022 was based on Matthew 5:14a and 16: “You are the light of the world… In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This verse formed our school direction and identity. Yes, as a school, we want to be known to excel in academics, sports, or the arts, but most importantly, we want to honour and shine for Jesus in everything we do. We have also focused on how we can intentionally foster ‘Service’ in our school, which was closely tied to our theme for the year. We have strategically ensured that ‘Service’ was not an add-on subject; instead, we have seen students inspired to have responsible and thoughtful heart actions and responses as we explored ‘Service’, from Kinder students helping to mulch the Kinder playground, older students patiently guiding younger students with their robotics, students opening doors, setting and packing up for assembly without being asked, and I will stop now as the list is expansive… Improvement of our teaching and learning practices was one of our core focuses this year and is evidenced by students’ significant improvement in their academic outcomes. Staff have been immensely dedicated to improving teaching and learning to ensure that we are providing the highest quality Christ-centred education that prepares and equips students for life. Teachers have been deeply committed to continuing to reflect and plan from a distinctly Christian worldview by intentionally weaving biblical threads in their teaching and learning programs. Our teaching and learning practices have been informed by data and best practice models that are evidenced by research. A Visible Learning Pedagogical Framework has being implemented, which is underpinned by research supporting how students learn best, with a renewed focus on teaching vocabulary due to the strong link between an extensive vocabulary and success in school and, in particular, in reading.
2022 has been a year of new innovative initiatives: a whole school approach to recycling, the Garden-to-Plate program, the formation of a student rock band and a STEM Program were some of the new learning opportunities where students have grown in leadership and collaboration with their peers. It has been a blessing to see students’ god-given gifts and interests nurtured. Building Positive Behaviour and Culture: this year, our school values of Respect, Kindness and Resilience have underpinned this new framework. It has been such a joy to see students and staff encouraging each other by modelling the school values and celebrating these together. Building good culture in a school is hard work, and it is not something that happens overnight: it’s an ongoing commitment where we need to continue to be proactive with reminding students and staff to live our values out daily. Parent partnership continues to thrive at Northern. Our parents are committed and earnestly desire to work in partnership with us in educating and nurturing their children within a transforming and biblically-authentic Christian framework. We have been overwhelmed by the level of support this year and how our parent body has sacrificed with their time, cooking, expertise and generosity. I can honestly say that the successes of this year, particularly our first Light Festival and the Peter Pan production, were due to the immense support we had from students, parents and staff. Your help and commitment encourages and inspires us, and I thank God for the vital role that you play in our school community and in your child’s learning. As I have looked back on this year, I am overwhelmed with thankfulness to God for His goodness and faithfulness to Northern Christian School. I encourage you all to attend our Thanksgiving Service celebrating students' achievements, the wonderful year we have had as a school community and giving thanks to God for His faithfulness and goodness. Let us not slow down but finish the year strong, relying on God’s strength and wisdom, and walking in His light. By God’s grace, let’s pray that we will finish 2022 well! Bethany Armstrong - Principal
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