It is not uncommon I proclaim this to the students and staff at an Assembly. I do love Assemblies for all that they do in building school community. Nevermore was this felt last Tuesday, when for the first time since 3 March 2020 the entire Mt Ridley Primary school gathered in the CGA for their first in-person Assembly in nearly 13 months. There was a wonderful positive energy in the room with many smiling faces of those who were genuinely excited to come together as one. Noteworthy were the Prep students, who attended their first Assembly and very much enjoyed the music and singing, the presentations and hearing the older students speak. Of course, I must also mention the Year 1s who have only really experienced a handful of school Assemblies and Chapel services in early Term 1 last year. I am sure many fond memories came flooding back.
The recent lifting of limits regarding students and rooming capacity has meant that Assemblies and Chapel can now return. Restrictions remain regarding visitors, so we are not yet able to invite parents to join in with their children, but the good news is that things are on a positive track and hopefully we soon will have you with us once again.
As well as teaching and reinforcing important life-skills, Assemblies provide an occasion for communal sharing, in order to:
- Recognise student achievement (academic, co-curricular, through service and as leaders).
- Share the learning experiences of the students.
- Report on class activities, camps, and excursions/incursions
- Perform musical, dance and dramatic pieces.
- Celebrate or commemorate occasions of significance.
- Communicate important messages.
- Provide opportunities for students to develop public speaking skills.
- Encourage student leadership and personal initiative.
- Promote notable events.
- Provide the opportunity to hear from guest speakers, including staff.
- Appreciate the etiquette of participating as part of an audience.
- Allow for Christian devotion.
Fortunately, we can also have Chapel services so allowing for those all-important Easter services next week. I know the School Chaplain; Reverend Peter is excited and looking forward to gatherings with a strong pastoral focus to be both welcoming and bind us communally. This will be a wonderful way to formally conclude the term, just days before the calendar celebrations of Good Friday and Easter.