We hope this newsletter finds you all in good health as we welcome the beautiful season of spring. Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and transformation, and it brings with it not only the beauty of nature but also numerous benefits to our wellbeing. In this edition, we will explore how spring's arrival can inspire empathy, kindness, gratitude, and mindfulness in our lives, as well as provide a glimmer of hope to those in need.

As we look out of our classroom windows or walk through our school's gardens, we cannot help but be enchanted by the growing vibrant colours and fragrant blossoms that surround us. Spring is a time when the world awakens from its winter slumber, bursting forth with new life. The budding trees, blooming flowers, and the return of chirping birds remind us of the endless cycles of nature and the opportunities for growth and transformation that lie ahead – and the promise of mulberries!

Spring's beauty can inspire empathy and kindness in our hearts. Just as nature goes through cycles of growth and change, we too experience moments of growth and change in our lives. Recognising the struggles and challenges that others may be facing during these times, and extending a helping hand or a listening ear, fosters empathy and kindness in our community.

Gratitude is a powerful emotion that blossoms like the spring flowers. Take a moment to appreciate the small joys that spring offers us - a gentle breeze, the warmth of the sun, or the smell of freshly cut grass. Encourage children to keep a gratitude journal and write down the things they are thankful for each day. Gratitude can remind us of the beauty in life and the importance of appreciating the little things.

In the midst of our busy lives, spring encourages us to be mindful and present in the moment. Encourage children to take a break from their screens and spend time outdoors, observing the beauty of nature. The act of being present in nature can help reduce stress, increase focus, and improve overall wellbeing.

Spring also carries a message of hope, especially for those on the land in need of rain and for those still recovering from last year's floods. Let us keep them in our thoughts and offer support where we can. Our community has shown tremendous resilience in the face of adversity, and together, we can provide hope to those who need it most.

As we embrace the season of renewal and growth, let us carry the lessons of empathy, kindness, gratitude, and mindfulness with us. By doing so, we can not only enhance our own wellbeing but also contribute to the betterment of our community and the world around us.

Wishing you all a vibrant and hopeful spring season.

PRINCIPAL

Mr John Robertson

WELCOME & FAREWELL

SRAS warmly welcomes Jarred, who has joined our 9/10 cohort.  We wish him the very best for his schooling at SRAS.

SRAS farewells Mrs Mary Ann Humphris who departs our team after nearly 3 years. We will miss her expertise, knowledge and kindness for students, children and staff. Wishing her the utmost best and thank her for her contributions to SRAS.

THE RESILIENCE PROJECT (TRP)

Part 3: Empathy & Kindness

This next presentation from The Resilience Project is all about Empathy and Kindness.  

Empathy is our ability to put ourselves in the shoes of others to feel and see what they do. We practice this through being kind and compassionate towards other people.

Brain imaging data shows that being kind to others registers in the brain as more like eating chocolate than like fulfilling an obligation to do what’s right (e.g., eating brussel sprouts)!

Research shows that practicing empathy, such as performing acts of kindness, taps into our brain’s ‘mirror neurons’, builds compassion and our behaviour becomes more social and community-based. 

View Part 3 of the series here: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/2023-parent-carer-hub-inspire-hugh/

Here’s an activity to practise empathy and kindness:

1. Reflect on someone in your life who could benefit from an act of kindness today. It could be a friend who would love some affirmation about their work, your pet who deserves an extra treat, or a family member who would love a phone call or text message. 
2. Make a plan for who you are going to give an act of kindness to, and what you are going to do. 
3. If you want to add accountability to your plan, share it with someone else and encourage them to do the same thing.
4. Follow up with each other in a few days time, to ask how it went! 

PRESCHOOL PARENT OPINION SURVEY

The 2023 Preschool Parent Opinion Survey will be closing on Friday 6 October, giving you the chance to collect valuable information from families to inform your preschool’s improvement planning.

 To date there have been 3 responses for our preschool – thank you.

We encourage parents and carers to participate in the survey by using your preschool’s unique link

https://survey.education.sa.gov.au/sc/WXDFt_za4Ah5G_FNBIqJyA2

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24-HOUR PEDAL PRIX

This weekend, the 24-Hour Pedal Prix Event will be run at Sturt Reserve, Murray Bridge, on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th of September.  Racing starts at 12 noon on Saturday and finishes at 12 noon Sunday. Every member of the team is excited and aiming to achieve their personal bests. Best of luck to all participants!

Mr Greg Griffiths

Teacher