From the Middle School— The importance of character and commitment

The importance of character and commitment.

If the proof is in the pudding, then what better way to demonstrate the values of the Middle School than to see how some of its graduates have fared in the Senior School.

By Mr Brad Hilliard, Head of Middle School

‘Hard work spotlights the character of people; some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don’t turn up at all.’

FORMER BASEBALL PLAYER, SAM EWING

The reason for this quote will hopefully become more apparent as the article unfolds.

Before a student starts their journey in the Middle School, we like to meet with them, get to know them, and make them feel welcome. I like to call it an informal interview. I often share the excitement generated with families and students as they look forward to the next phase of the child’s development at the College.

As our children develop towards their potential, they take in all of the experiences they have over time, shaping them as a person and leading to their subsequent success in the future. The breadth of experiences that unfold over time is clearly a reason why families choose a Wesley education.

When I was thinking of writing an article for this edition of The Wesleyan, I went to two of my favourite themes; character and commitment!

I often talk about these ingredients for success with students and families. We want our children to become good people who lead fulfilling lives; knowing the importance of good character and that effort over time results in success in all life endeavours.

Our Core Values of Respect, Integrity, Compassion and Courage encapsulate this theme of character and working hard. I firmly believe that the current generation of children we are educating is shaping well to make the world a better place.

And in shaping the world they live in, students have opportunities to develop in so many ways. This could include involvement in one of our co-curricular programs, leading a House as a House Captain, being a Chapel monitor in serving the College or representing their class peers on the Student Representative Council (SRC).

In recent discussions with three Year 12 leaders who all came through the Middle School, this theme of character and commitment resonated.

I asked them to reflect on their memories and got some great insights as they approach the end of their College journey. Working hard and rolling up the sleeves, is certainly an approach that is valued and celebrated from a Middle School and College perspective.

Head of Middle School, Mr Brad Hilliard, with Dimitri Lazidis and Sean McDougall.

Dimitri Lazidis, Faith and Service Prefect

I was fortunate to have opportunities as an SRC member and Chapel monitor in Middle School. Being on the SCR in Middle School provided me with amazing chances to work and collaborate with the Chair of SRC. Through various fundraising experiences and SRC activities, I was able to discover what I enjoy doing, and what others value about me. This has helped me in developing my sense of self.

One of the most important things I learned while being a leader in Middle School, which I still apply to my life today, is learning from everything. Not all learning is done in a classroom. Stepping outside and working with older and younger people taught me skills in listening, patience and learning to take responsibility for myself.

Ollie Watkins, Prefect, Chair of SRC

I’ve been a Mofflin House Captain in Junior and Middle School as well as involved in the SRC in Senior School. My advice for the students coming through the school is to stay social and just be kind to people. The more connections you make and the more selfless and relentlessly nice you are to people, the more you’ll see and feel the effects of it in the future.

Secondly, just do it. Just apply for that co-curricular activity you’ve been thinking about, that leadership role you’ve had your eye on, whatever it is, and grab the bull by the horns while doing it. You’re only going to receive back the amount you put in. For the students that don’t feel comfortable stepping into a formal leadership position, or have just missed out, that’s okay. My fondest leadership memories have almost all come from nonformal roles in and outside the school. Anyone and everyone can lead in some sort of way, whether it’s on a sporting field, debate team, ensemble or anything else, you have the ability to step up and lead.

Sean McDougall, Middle School Prefect

Katitjin was a highlight for me! The entire experience gave me something that is really hard to teach: Working and enjoying time outside your comfort zone. This has been really helpful in my Prefect leadership position, as I know I can survive speaking in front of a large group of people, or running a slightly unorthodox event.

Character is an incredibly hard thing to tell you how to build, and there isn’t a five-step process that gets you there. But if you just take things as they come, have fun, do the things that you love enjoying, trust me, you’ll have a much better time at school, and in life.