From the Principal
One of my favourite things to do at Grace is gate duty in the afternoon. Standing by the gate, I watch so many parents interacting with one another and enjoying each others’ company until ultimately the bell goes and hundreds of happy children run out to find their parent or grandparent so they can go home together. The faces are always beaming and happy and they are full of stories to share on their journey home.
Sometimes a student who is regularly at GOSHC finds their way out to the waiting area, but there is always a GOSHC staff member with an iPad picking up who should be in the centre and who is in the wrong place. Quickly, they are also greeted with a smile and encouraged to be in the safe and warm environment of our GOSHC centre.
The thing I love about afternoon gate duty, is that I can see how our community is fostered and encouraged by parents having a chat in the afternoon but also, the love which is shown from children to their carer (and visa versa) as they reconnect at the end of a long day. Family in all its different forms is so important for a child’s development and I especially thank the grandparents many of whom look after children before and after school but also during vacation times so that parents can work and provide for their families. For those of you who I know also collect students who will ‘melt down’ as soon as they see you, I know this is stressful but you need to acknowledge that your child sees you as his/her safe place and your care in these circumstances is also treasured. If this goes on of course, please talk to us about it because we may be able to destress some circumstances to give you a happier afternoon.
At Grace, family, love and community are really treasured and I thank all parents and extended family members who provide the support for their children to make our life such a joy at school.
CALENDAR UPDATES
A reminder we have extended our term school days this year due to our late start to the year.
Trudy Moala
TrudyMoala@glps.qld.edu.au
Principal