Head of Junior School
The Principle of Giving
Recent events in the Philippines and the NSW bushfires remind us of how fortunate we truly are. Living in Australia we are immune to many of the challenges that people in other countries face. The typhoon that hit the Philippines left incredible devastation in its wake. Hundreds of thousands of people are homeless and in desperate need of help. The international community has responded and assistance is being provided from around the globe including Australia.
Our boys have responded as well. They are writing Christmas cards to the children of the Philippines. A small gesture, but nonetheless, one that shows that the boys of Scotch College are thinking about these children and the challenging situation they face and that they are in our prayers
The IB defines a person of principle as one who "acts with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. One who takes responsibility for their actions and their consequences." (IBO)
Over the course of the school year our boys have repeatedly demonstrated that they have this quality. On many occasions I have been approached to approve a special day to raise funds for a worthy cause. Through their PYP Exhibition, the boys of Year 5 considered and developed may different actions they could take to support worthy causes and to make a difference. Friday's Crazy Hair day to mention just one.
Our boys genuinely care for one another and we work with them to develop their empathy for those less fortunate than us. Again they have not let us down in this regard. With the holiday season fast approaching the need to help others increases. The College is taking part in Operation Santa through Uniting Care West that will brighten the Christmas for needy children and families. The canned goods and non-perishable items drive asks for donations that will go to families in need. The Christmas gift shoebox drive asks the boys to put together a shoebox that contains small items for children such coloured pencils or markers, a small colouring book or coloured paper; underwear and socks; soap, toothbrushes, hairbrush or comb; and toys, games or books with no small or missing parts/pages. These gifts will be given to disadvantaged children.
Every small gesture makes a difference and the opportunity to give and to show our principle natures should not be missed. I encourage all families to support these two worthy causes.
John Stewart
Head of Junior School
