Patience is a Virtue

Have you heard any one of these phrases before? From William Langland phrase, “patience is a virtue”. Or perhaps one from a poem by Lady Mary Montgomerie Currie, the phrase, “all things come to those who wait”. In the olden days, these thoughts were often said to encourage and cultivate patience. So, if you have heard these phrases before, you are likely not alone. If you take the Oxford Lexico dictionary definition for the word patience, you will read, it is “the capacity to accept or tolerate delay”. 

If I were to take a straw vote, the combined sum of all our experiences might show that there is wisdom in upholding these values and virtues. The reality is, our young people are growing up in a new era where the immediacy of digital connectivity and the broadening of the reach of social networking means life is moving and the pace is picking up. Today, the availability of time may well be a limiting factor for our young people as they are developing mastery of virtues outside of a school context. 

At Avondale School we take a wholistic approach to learning. That is why we provide space for our students to learn and connect over values like patience and other desirable virtues. In research conducted across Primary and Secondary campuses last year, our students told us that they had been positively impacted by open access to teachers who care about who they are and how they learn. Students have also said that having the opportunity to explore their spirituality in Chapels, Bible classes, Bible study groups, camps, and asking teachers questions, is impactful and important. We heard Bounce Back, Invictus and Challenge classes are great program elements that allow students to discuss how ‘life’ is and workshop questions in a space where they are safe to share. That we have these types of learning spaces available ensures we are available to nurture our students as they learn and grow. We understand that each student learns at their own pace, and we have made sure that there are teachers and staff able to guide our young people along their way to success.

I am reminded of Proverbs 22:6 which says, “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” 

We consider it an honour to partner with you in supporting your child as they learn and grow. We are so proud that we can be part of a learning journey that is profound and foundational. We look forward to celebrating each milestone and every success. 

Mr Gary Marsters

Assistant Head of Secondary