Dear Parents
One of our central values that we endeavour to uphold all the time and inculcate in the boys is respect; respect for self, for others and our environment. Every boy knows it but acting in a respectful way at all times is not always as easy as having the knowledge.
This term we do work with our boys on relationships, the bullying policy, how to manage the inter-personal issues, what constitutes bullying, and so on. A few guidelines that we give them are:
• Teasing is teasing if both boys are happy; otherwise, it becomes insulting and hurtful.
• Respond rather than retaliate – interactions often spiral out of control from a very innocuous start.
• Not everyone has to be your friend, but everyone has to be respected.
• If you really care for others, “fighting” with them becomes less likely.
I am sure you also work these issues with your sons. At the same time one has to acknowledge that school is a place where boys learn about social dynamics and mistakes will happen. Boys (and many men too) like to tease each other; the problem is that boys are often too young to know what constitutes appropriate teasing and when to stop. Friendships can alter on a daily basis, so sometimes what might feel like bullying is actually a series of squabbles. But nothing excuses consistent, sustained insulting or cruel behavior.
A number of our Grade 7s have been trained as conflict mediators and will be on duty at break times wearing purple lanyards, available to assist the boys in their conflict situations. Developing appropriate interactions between boys is a constant work in progress, with some boys finding this easier than others.
Enjoy your weekend. Please note that next weekend starts with Sports day on Friday, but there are no activities on the Saturday.
Kind regards
GREG BROWN
HEADMASTER |