Dean of Students | Mr Damien Fall

It has been a busy week for the Seniors, with Monday and Tuesday devoted to a full dress-rehearsal for the fast approaching QCS test.  We were proud of their efforts and the boys were clearly drained by Tuesday afternoon, having given it their best.  In keeping with tradition, the Seniors had the opportunity for some fun on Tuesday night at the Senior Formal.  It was fantastic to see the Year 12 students and their partners representing the College so well, whilst genuinely enjoying the evening together.  The Seniors of 2018 continue to impress as they head into a particularly busy section of the term.  We wish them well as they juggle their academic demands.  No doubt, they will have enjoyed the day off on Wednesday.

The challenges of managing mobile phones, gaming and social media never go away for parents.  Any tool that might assist parents with this is well worth a look.  Two apps that have been brought to my attention in recent days are:

Kidslox https://kidslox.stageserver.or...   for parental control on phones and tablets
And
Qustodio https://www.qustodio.com/en/  which does a similar job on all devices

Different families manage usage in different ways, so this won’t suit all parents, but some Terrace parents have spoken very positively about these tools.  Parents who are frustrated with attempting to monitor and limit technology usage by their children may find them useful.

I have recently been reading on the link between humans’ wellbeing, sense of identity and the need for a sense of purpose in their lives.  It makes sense that we feel more motivated and optimistic if we have a strong sense of purpose.  There is also evidence that purposeful individuals are better equipped to weather life’s storms.  It is unlikely that a genuine sense of purpose can begin to develop until the onset of adolescence, but schools can assist families in developing this in children.  Encouraging young people to help out at home, participate in leadership or service activities, faith-related activities or engagement in the arts can precipitate the development of purpose.  It is another reason why, at Terrace, we aim to offer a variety of opportunities for our students.  A holistic education can contribute to a strong sense of purpose and optimal wellbeing.  

For a number of reasons, we have made the decision to involve current Year 10 students in our Buddy program in 2019.  Therefore, in addition to Year 12 students, Year 11 students will also be part of this program next year.  A number of Year 11 2019 students have been allocated a Year 5 buddy, who they will assist with the transition to life at Terrace.  I have written to those boys involved and their parents about this and included details of the Orientation Evening the boys are required to attend.  Those Year 11 2019 students not allocated to a Year 5 student will be asked to assist with the Year 7 Buddy program.  I thank our Year 10 students in anticipation of your commitment to this important service next year.  Wishing all in our community the very best as we reach the halfway point of the term.