Emmanuel Newsletter

From the Head of Secondary

Fostering Holistic Well-being: A Way Forward for the Year Ahead

As the Acting Head of Secondary School, I am filled with excitement as we look ahead to a new year of growth, learning, and opportunity. This year, we continue to place a strong emphasis on the holistic development of our students, understanding that academic achievement is inseparable from their emotional and social well-being. As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us,

‘Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.’

At the heart of our mission for student success is our desire to nurture students who are not only academically capable but also resilient, compassionate, and emotionally intelligent. We also desire to equip our students to handle life's challenges with faith and confidence. Creating a balanced, supportive, and respectful environment is essential to shaping young people who are not only knowledgeable but resilient, empathetic, and responsible citizens now, and beyond their schooling.

In pursuit of our mission and holistic nurturing, one of the primary focuses for us this year will be nurturing students' emotional well-being. Social-emotional learning (SEL) equips students with the skills to manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. It is crucial that we provide our students with the tools they need to understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. The Bible encourages us in Philippians 4:6-7,

‘do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.’

In reimagining life’s possibilities, we believe that it is possible for our students to experience that peace, grounded in emotional and spiritual well-being, both within and with others. This year, our Pastoral Care Team will continue to play a pivotal role in supporting the social-emotional development of our students, as will all staff in our school. Through regular one-on-one support, and the integration of Christian teaching into SEL practices, our team will help guide students in their emotional journeys, encouraging them to cultivate empathy, resilience, and a Christ-centred approach to life’s challenges. As Ephesians 4:2 teaches us,

‘Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.’

These values will be at the heart of our work with students, creating a community where every individual feels valued and supported.

Guided by our Christian principles and values of Courage, Integrity and Respect, we look forward to a year of transformation, faith, and success for all. Through the support of our dedicated staff and the strength of our school community, we will help our students thrive in all aspects of their school lives. We believe these efforts will make our students know that they are purposeful, valued, known, and loved.

David Witcomb – Head of Secondary (Acting)

Your Calendar

MARCH

All details of re-scheduled events will appear on the Emmanuel Calendar.

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School Photo Day

Secondary Update - PE

It has been a fantastic and active start to the year in Physical Education!

Over the first five weeks of term, students have been focusing on both cross-country preparation and developing their striking and fielding skills.

In the lead-up to our recent Whole School Cross Country event, students engaged in course familiarisation and endurance training to build their confidence and fitness. Their hard work paid off, with students performing and participating exceptionally well on the day. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm, perseverance, and encouragement of one another throughout the event.

Alongside cross country training, students have been developing their striking and fielding skills through cricket and wiffle ball. The focus has been on control and accuracy in throwing and catching, as well as improving their striking technique. These activities have provided a great opportunity to refine hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and game strategy while staying active and engaged.

Jacob Rugless – Secondary Health and PE Teacher

Primary Update - Prep

Sunflowers, Seeds and Science

During the past five weeks the Prep class have been busy learning about seeds and plants while investigating the structure of sunflowers. Our first week back at school this term saw us sketch, colour and paint to create a beautiful display for our empty classroom walls.

In the following weeks this activity has turned into a range of Science investigations, including observing the parts of a sunflower, through to planting a range of lettuce seeds ready to move into our new outdoor garden beds.

This week we have enjoyed all the many interesting items the children have been bringing to share for Show and Tell as we are learning about things we find outside in nature.

Anne Knibbe – Prep Teacher