“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Galatians 6:9.
As we begin another busy term together, I’ve found myself reflecting on something that has become increasingly clear to me throughout my first year as Deputy Principal at Bayside Christian College. It’s often not the big moments that have the greatest impact on our children, it is the little moments.
It’s the teacher who notices a child sitting alone and invites them into a game. It’s the student who quietly helps a classmate who is struggling. It’s the parent who takes a few extra minutes each evening to ask, “Tell me about your day.” It’s the encouraging words after a disappointing assessment, the early morning school drop-offs, the reminder to pack a lunch, complete homework or simply try again tomorrow. These moments may seem ordinary, but they are shaping the young people our children are becoming.
One of the greatest privileges of my role is being able to spend time in classrooms, on playgrounds, at sporting events and simply chatting with students throughout the day. I have learnt that every child has their own story. Some arrive at school full of confidence, while others are quietly carrying worries that we may never see. Some find learning easy, while others work incredibly hard simply to keep up. Every child wants to feel accepted, valued and known. That is why I believe relationships matter more than anything else we do.
When children know they are loved, supported and believed in, they become more willing to take risks, ask questions, persevere through challenges and discover what they are truly capable of achieving. As educators, we have the privilege of walking alongside your children during some of the most important years of their lives, but we can only do this well because of the partnership we share with you as parents. Thank you for trusting us with your children each day. Thank you for the early mornings, the packed lunches, the endless washing of uniforms, the encouragement after difficult days and the celebration of successes, both big and small. Your influence extends far beyond the school gate.
As a parent myself, I understand that raising children is one of life’s greatest joys, but also one of its greatest responsibilities. We all have moments where we wonder if we’re doing enough or making the right decisions. I want to encourage you that the love, consistency and time you invest in your children each day matters more than you realise. They may not always say it, but they notice.
As we move through Term 3, I encourage all of us—students, staff and parents alike—to focus on the little things. A kind word. A helping hand. A note of encouragement. A smile. A conversation. These simple acts often have a far greater impact than we ever realise.
My prayer is that our College continues to be a place where every child feels known, valued and encouraged to become the person God created them to be.
Thank you for being part of the Bayside Christian College community. It is a privilege to serve alongside such wonderful families, dedicated staff and remarkable students. I look forward to all that God has planned for us during the remainder of this year.
May God bless you and your family throughout Term 3.
Belinda France
Deputy Principal