Pittwater Life September 2023 Issue

School Life
John Colet: building students’ confidence
It takes a community to raise
a child, and children learn
best when they are not alone
on their journey. Through
collaborative learning
opportunities within class, to
opportunities for students to
engage across year levels in
an integrated buddy program,
John Colet School is proud
that their students learn with,
and are supported by, each
other.
Likewise, says Headmaster
Julian Wilcock, the collective
understanding between home
and school helps ensure there
are no gaps for students and
that they are supported at all
stages.
“Actively developing a
child’s ability to give attention
to tasks is an important skill
that is best learnt at an early
age,” Mr Wilcock said.
“Children’s minds naturally
wander, and practical exercises
help them to learn how to
focus.
“It is all about being in the
present moment. Many of our
unique subjects and clubs
facilitate this, such as Singing,
Shakespeare, extended Art
and Chess. However, it is the
regular pausing throughout
the day that helps children
learn how to fall still, quiet
the emotions and give their
attention to the task at hand.”
Mr Wilcock explained that
John Colet School was a multifaith
School where spiritual
and character development
was an important aspect of
students’
development.
“The children
are introduced to simple
exercises in self-awareness
and inner stillness. There are
regular moments of quiet
between lessons, and at the
age of 10, the children can
learn meditation. The aim
is to give children a quiet
sense of self assurance and
confidence.”
Philosophy classes are
conducted at all age levels, as
open discussions addressing
questions such as Who am
I?; How should I live my life?;
and What does it mean to be a
good friend? Scripture classes
draw on a range of traditions
from East and West.
Students are taught within
a caring, supporting
environment of trust
– and stay with their
class teachers for
two to three years,
for stability and
connection.
A daily vegetarian
lunch is also provided.
“While we are well-known
for our academics, our focus
remains on building a child’s
confidence and adaptability,
which we do through a
traditional curriculum and a
focus on liberal arts,” said Mr
Wilcock.
*Limited places are available
for girls in Years 3 and 5
in 2024; more information
johncolet.nsw.edu.au or
9451 8395.
School Life
The Local Voice Since 1991
SEPTEMBER 2023
45