Pittwater Life November 2023 Issue

School Life
School Life
Promoting inner stillness, reduced stress
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
students learn
with, and are
supported by,
each other.
Likewise,
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,” says
Headmaster Julian Wilcock.
“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.”
John Colet School is a
multi-faith School where
spiritual and character
development is an important
aspect of our students’
development. 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; what
does it mean to be a good
friend? Scripture classes draw on
traditions from East and West.
Students are taught within a
caring, supporting environment
of trust and stay with their
class teachers for 2-3 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,” says Mr
Wilcock.
*Limited places for Girls in
Years 3 and 5 in 2024. Call
9451 8395.
54 NOVEMBER 2023
The Local Voice Since 1991