Care Dignity and Respect
Human dignity is the same for all human beings: when I trample on the dignity of another, I am trampling on my own. ‒ Pope Francis
At the beginning of each school year, we focus on our school values – Care, Dignity and Respect during our Assembly and Chapel times. It is important that our new students understand our expectations at St Peters Springfield and our returning students have a refresher as to what this means for them as they move into new year levels. Our values are reinforced continually throughout the year using relevant real-life examples of people and situations showing care, dignity and respect.
It is easy to share what care and respect means to our students, but dignity requires a more thoughtful approach in explaining and relating to real life situations. We want students to know that it means being valued and respected for who you are, what you believe in and how you live your life. Knowing that treating other people with dignity means treating them the way we’d like to be treated ourselves.
In the coming weeks we will be focusing further on dignity as we recognise Harmony Day, International Women’s Day and the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.
In an article written by Dr Dawn Taylor she offers some ways parents can also support the understanding of dignity so that we continue to work in partnership to support our young people.
Take advantage of everyday occurrences to introduce children to the concept of dignity. At the dinner table, engage family members in a discussion of what it means when we say “please” and “thank you” as dishes are passed. While watching videos together, point out examples of people treating others with dignity. At a sports event, engage children in dialogue about the behaviours and language of athletes, coaches, or fans that demonstrate respect or lack of it. Use these teachable moments to help children learn what it means to be treated with dignity and how to treat others with dignity.
Children need to hear in your own words what dignity means to you and why it is something you value. Talk about people you admire for living dignified lives. Public figures such as those who helped in the floods, cyclone may first come to mind, but don’t overlook those in your immediate circle of family and friends. Describe your respect of a neighbour who shops for groceries for an elderly shut-in or your admiration of someone who has devoted their lives to helping others.
Keep in mind that adults aren’t the only ones who live dignified lives. The world is filled with children who seek to live each day with dignity. Give young people the same respect you would give a treasured friend. Show dignity through your kindness, your patience, your tone of voice. Children who are treated with respect and dignity learn invaluable lessons on how to treat others.
Every person has the right to lead a dignified life and fulfill his or her potential!
2022 Changes in Primary Uniform
Prep Legionnaires Hat
Our Prep students will be wearing Legionnaires hats throughout the year. The hats are more suitable for this age group as they stay on, are lighter and no need for a cord.
Sports House Shirts
In 2022 all Primary students are able to wear their house shirts on a Thursday. This is in addition to the sports carnival days held throughout the year. We will organise some Sports house activities on the oval in lunch breaks once we are able to run clubs again this term. It was very colourful last Thursday with our Mitchell, Cunningham and Leichhardt colours proudly worn. The only change will be if students attend an excursion or if there is a special event the school sports uniform needs to be worn.
Warm regards
Debbie West-McInnes
Head of Primary
