On a chilly morning, that feels like it was ushered in by winds delivered by Antarctica, you could be forgiven for being drawn to remember the warmer sun filled days that we were accustomed to just weeks ago. On days like these I think of the cycle of our seasons and the beauty that each seasonal change brings. You might enjoy a season more than the others. Or you may be like me who thinks each season has its finer points which are to be celebrated. Winter brings the crisp mornings that embolden the senses and those cold nights that bring us to gather closer around a warm cooked meal. Spring brings reinvigorated visits to the beach and the lake to test to see if the water is ‘warm enough’. Long summer days are filled with weekend BBQs and beach holidays. Autumn brings the warm colour change to the Liquid Maples - the perfect backdrop for picnics and camps.
We can be sure that each season brings a change and each change is a graduation in growth to the next. For us at Avondale School, we are blessed to support our students as they grow in stature and mature on their journey from ELC to Year 12. While in Cambodia, I was found standing at the foot of a house with the Year 12 students who had built it for a family in the village. As I looked on, without exception, each student’s face showed a mixture of humility and pride, as well as accomplishment as they handed the house over to the family. I was reminded of each student’s time here at school and those many ‘seasons’ that provided the backdrop to their journey toward their graduation. We are proud of those many students who have graduated and taken on the School’s values for knowing Christ, having a love for learning and serving as responsible global citizens. This is the joy of what we do.
It is an honour to be partnering with families to bring excellent learning opportunities to each child across their time here at Avondale School, and the Year 12 Cambodia service trip is just one expression of that. We recognise that each student is on their own path as a learner. We want to make sure that each child will be able to determine their path and celebrate their success with the expectation that with each victory even greater things are just ahead.
The Bible says, "Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens.” James 1:17, NLT What a bright thought. God provides us with a world where we can expect to see good things and receive great opportunities. At Avondale School we are excited to be able to provide a great foundation and grounding for our students where they can be faith-filled, confident and expectant in each season.
As you reach forward toward the weekend, may it be filled with rest and hope.
Mr Gary Marsters
Assistant Head of Secondary
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