As we ride off into the “sunset” of the end of year Christmas holidays, I would like to leave you with a few thoughts.
Firstly, thank you all so much for the part you have played throughout the year in supporting the work we do here with your children. In schools we often talk about a “supportive classroom environment” but for us as a staff, a “supportive parent environment” is equally as important. Speaking throughout the year to a number of Heads of Primary in the Sunshine Coast area, I really appreciate our parent body here at Glasshouse Christian College.
The home/school partnership has a much bigger impact on children’s success than you can imagine.
On another note, but an important one, if you can monitor the amount of screen time for your children over the holidays it will really benefit them. Some rather alarming statistics have been gathered which show that screen time just before bedtime can impact a child’s sleep and consequently their development. Sleep is so important for growth and an over stimulated brain can impact this.
Remember to keep devices where you are aware of what your child is accessing and what apps they have on their phone. It is a new world our children are growing up in and as parents, we need to be wise and alert. Younger children are having more and more screen time today and less time climbing trees and playing outdoors. So please take this opportunity on the holidays to be outdoors – swim, run, climb, read, visit friends, go to the beach, go on bushwalks together, go camping, and take every opportunity to strengthen relationships and create memories.
Finally, what a wonderful last week of school. The concerts were so enjoyable. The costumes were great. The singing was lovely. The children were a credit to everyone. The crowd was amazing and the weather was beautiful. Both nights showcased the combined talent of our staff and students and I felt so proud to be part of these evenings.
Our Year 6 Graduation was very special and every year we are delighted for the students who are moving forward excitedly to the next stage of their educational journey, yet saddened that they will not be with us in the Primary College next year. So congratulations to all our Year 6 students. We pray God’s richest blessing on you as you enter Middle School. I guess it’s the circle of life that as these classes of Year 6 leave the Primary College, another three classes of bright eyed, excited children come into Prep ready to embrace every opportunity they encounter in their first formal year of schooling.
Have a wonderful break and we look forward to what 2018 will bring for us all.
Blessings.
Cheryl Bryers
Head of Primary