Reflecting with Gratitude
“What separates privilege from entitlement is gratitude.” ― Brené Brown
As I finalise our ‘Strategic Directions: Towards 2027’ ready for communication with our community, I am reminded of a recent message shared by Greg McDonald (Deputy Head) during our recent Anniversary and Grandparents Day Service, which I have included below.
His message reminds us of the increased richness of learning opportunities and resources that have become part of our school journey over time, but also the enduring strength and warmth of our community.
Greatness can really only be found in the humble recognition of those who have moulded our present. With gratitude, we stand on their shoulders as we reach out to the future.
Some time ago I focused a Messenger article on gratitude. Gratitude helps people refocus on what they have, instead of what they lack.
In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. It helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. (Harvard Health)
As we look towards our school’s next exciting chapter, we should do so with a deep sense of gratitude for all that has been bequeathed to us from the past. It has made Mosman Prep a ‘leading community of learning’, solidly built on a foundation of relationship, trust and respect.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15:
Peter Grimes | Headmaster
Greg McDonald - Anniversary Service Reflection
Twenty-seven years ago, I commenced plying my trade at Mosman Prep. At that time, Reception was in the current Early Entry Rooms.
We had one class per year group, one PE teacher, one music teacher, one teacher who did both Extension Classes and Learning Support, no art teacher, a part time French teacher, 1 small bus, no computers, no Ipads, MacBooks weren’t invented, the internet was in its fledgling years.
A couple of senior classes went on camp for a couple of days to frolic in the sand, go for a stroll in the woods and generally go unchallenged. The Year 6 Canberra trip was for one night, playing 2 games of rugby, no soccer, and no educational experience.
Aside from this simplified schooling system, we did have a wonderfully supportive community.
27 years later, we now have two classes per year group in Senior Primary, two PE teachers and multiple external sports teachers, two teachers for Extension classes, two teachers for Learning Support, seven additional literacy and numeracy educators, one Art teacher, one Mandarin language teacher, one Librarian, one ICT Integrator, two small buses, one big bus, and another leased big bus.
Each boy has access to a MacBook in Early Entry to Year 3, each boy in Year 4-6 has his own Ipad with the facility to Airplay his screen to the big screen in the classroom.
Our Senior Primary classes each go on a 3–5-day camp, visiting areas such as the Blue Mountains, Lake Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and the Shoalhaven. The camps are sequential in their experiences, culminating in the Year 6 Pack and Paddle in the Shoalhaven district.
This Year, 38 Year 6 boys were provided the opportunity to travel to Central Australia for 6 days for an exciting camping and cultural experience. If not for COVID these same boys would have been packing their bags for 10 days of travel throughout Japan!
27 years ago, we operated in buildings owned entirely by St Clement’s Church. Today, the majority of buildings and playground spaces in the school are owned by the School.
27 years ago, we dreamed of having expansive accessible playing fields. Now, after hard work, good planning and generous people, we have these extensive playing fields and other facilities at Terrey Hills, including:
- a professional industrial kitchen allowing a cooking program
- produce gardens
- a low ropes course
- jungle gym equipment
- BMX bicycles
These facilities are the envy of all other schools who visit us there.
However, better than all these additional resources and opportunities, we have nurtured our wonderful community.
Recently I attended a major function at secondary school. At that function were significant numbers of old boys and their parents. Each was effusive in their comments about the wonderful spirit of Mosman Prep, and the supportive community which is fostered. Some parents in attendance who were from other schools, also chipped in with comments reflecting their appreciation of our community.
You, the young and the not as young, being here this morning, are an essential part of our community. You participate in it, you support it, you foster it. You are it! and for this, the School is truly grateful.
As they say in a familiar tune around town: “Here’s a toast to you”.
Thank you
