This week in my address to the Senior School assembly I spoke to students about being brave enough to try something new… and not always be good at it! I recounted my introduction to the wonderful world of golf, where I had begun thinking that it couldn’t be that hard and I would be great at it straight from the start. I had been a pretty decent softball player so could navigate a bat (club) and ball, but no, I was not the Tiger Woods I thought or expected myself to be. We often see the desire for perfectionism in adolescents and particularly in girls, and if something is not done perfectly the first time there is a strong inclination to give up. However, by persisting we learn both tangible and intangible skills or characteristics. We learn about ourselves, our strengths and how we show adaptability or resilience to keep moving forward. This positive mindset and desire for growth is something to lean in to as it is sometimes through the most uncomfortable moments that the best growth occurs.
To our students, I encourage each of you to keep trying new things, be brave and lean in to the discomfort that might accompany learning. To our parents, be patient with your young people as they become frustrated or saddened by the lack of immediate perfection but encourage them and grow with them. Show them your own personal development or growth, as perhaps what they are learning might be something new for you to learn too, and you can learn together.
We provide a wide range of opportunities for students at every age and stage at CGGS, I encourage each child and young person to take advantage of the clubs, sports, intellectual pursuits, leadership opportunities, lunchtime events and other activities that are presented.
We will also provide the chance for our community to peek into the doors of our school at the CGGS Whole School Open Day on Thursday, 8 September. Current and prospective families are most welcome to join us on that day for a tour of all the CGGS campuses and to hear from the school leadership team, including the incoming Principal Mrs Terrie Jones. Please register on our website here if you would like to attend.
Ms Julie Jorritsma
Acting Principal