Head of School's Blog

As well as the obvious health and fitness benefits, sport teaches us about being human. Learning to win and lose, to lead and be part of a team, and to go all out and acknowledge defeat are essential life skills. Our team of dedicated and passionate specialist teachers and coaches are on hand to provide high-quality guidance, helping each student fulfil their potential.

Our community marked the centenary year of the Armistice with a series of thought-provoking commemorations. Each of the divisional assemblies was characterized by sombre reflection and gratitude as we remembered those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and civil liberties.

Homecoming 2018 was a resounding success with close to 250 alumni participating in events at the School and reunion gatherings. Sally and I were delighted to welcome members of the classes of 1958 and 1968 to Shepard House. They regaled us with lively stories from their schooldays and enjoyed the archive material prepared by our School Archivist, Ms. Calla Grabish.

I hope you enjoyed reading about the School’s exciting plans for the revitalization of the Athletic Centre in the latest issue of Focus.

Welcome to the 2018-2019 academic year! Anticipation abounds and there is a powerful air of purpose and enthusiasm around the School as we consider the year ahead.

I can’t believe how quickly the school year has passed. Thank you for your trust and commitment in us; parental and family support is outstanding. We could not do what we do without your support, and our partnership ensures that St. John’s-Ravenscourt School goes from strength to strength as we continue to work together for the benefit of our children.

In a week that saw our curious Kindergarten kids learning ‘out under the trees (O.U.T.T)’, it was entirely fitting that we also celebrated Arbor Day at SJR.

As I walked to work earlier this week I was confronted by a rather aggressive nesting goose who made its unhappiness about my presence clear! As a result, I spoke to Junior School students about the need for caution and we decided to curtail our learning activities in our outdoor classroom for now. Nevertheless, many learning lessons are taking place outside of our classrooms. Here are just some of the highlights, with my grateful thanks to Ms. Campbell, Mme. Patella, Mrs. Powell, Mrs. Ragot, Mr. Robinson and Mr. Wright for their assistance with this week’s post.

In a week tinged with deep sadness, we wore green and gold, donned sports jerseys and left hockey sticks out to pay our respects and show our support for the Humboldt Broncos. In honour of those affected by the tragic accident and their passion for sport, I also wanted to highlight and acknowledge the recent achievements of our sports teams.

Sport, drama and music are as central to life here as they are at any good school, and I have enjoyed supporting our students at a raft of recent cultural and sporting events. I hope to report more on their sporting successes after spring break. In the meantime, please join me in wishing the best of luck to our Varsity Boys’ Basketball team who will play in the Provincials at SJR this afternoon. Go Eagles!

We are looking to develop six skills within our program that will prepare students for the challenges of university and the world of work. We refer to them as the “6 Cs”: character, critical thinking and problem solving, collaboration and teamwork, creativity and innovation, communication, and changeability. By the time students reach Senior School, they are well on the way to gaining these skills. This is rather an unusual communication from me today because I am only focusing on the achievements of our Senior School students in these areas.

Last week, Senior School students exchanged a day of timetabled classes for ‘Mini-Mesters'. Mini-Mesters allow students to spend long periods of time immersed in all sorts of fascinating activities. Grade 12s launched their upcoming grad season and enjoyed ballroom dancing with their parents. Our Grade 9s took part in a mock parliament, run by Adrienne Tessier '13, and the Grade 10 and 11 students focused on course selection, gym activities and drop-in Art and Drama sessions. Judging by the positive feedback from students, faculty and parent-dancers alike, everyone had a great learning experience.

I hope all families were able to enjoy a restful and peaceful winter break. It is still just about early enough in the year to wish everyone all the best for 2018. It was great to welcome students back to School and I hope your children feel as excited about the term ahead as I am. I want them to embrace their aspirations and make the most of their talents and abilities.