There is a Japanese proverb which states ‘teaching is half learning’ and with our visiting exchange students from Kaichi Junior and Senior School, I reflect on just how true this is. As much as we have taught our new Japanese friends about life at Casey Grammar School, we, in turn, have learnt so much from them. And despite the distance and cultural differences, it’s been interesting to learn how closely their values of empowering students and developing their strengths, talents and academic skills, align with the CGS values of compassion, integrity, inclusion, respect and excellence.
The exchange students were welcomed on Monday morning with a special assembly attended by Years 6 - 12 students. It was also a pleasure to host the City of Casey Mayor, Cr Amanda Stapledon and State Member for Cranbourne, Mrs Pauline Richards MP at the assembly. Both welcomed the Kaichi students to the City of Casey and spoke fondly about forming life-long friendships.
Thank you to our students who accepted the role of being a ‘buddy’ to the exchange students this week. The time you’ve spent looking after them and helping to immerse them in classes and activities has been much appreciated.
Moving ahead, we look forward to working further with OutBeyond who facilitated the exchange and potentially having CGS students travel to Japan or other chosen countries.
It’s been a busy week in the Junior School with our Prep students celebrating 100 days of learning by dressing up and having a party. There was also a special visit from Reptile Encounters with some very brave Prep students holding lizards, frogs and even a crocodile!
The following students were presented with the Principals Award at Junior School assembly on Thursday.
Prep - Khloe Sok
Year 1 - Logan Leow
Year 2 - Lucy van Brakel
Year 3 - Ayaana Arora
Year 4 - Harrison Brewster
Year 5 - Sabreen Kaur
Year 6 - Aaron Owen
Congratulations to these students who have been recognised as upholding the school values and treating others the way they like to be treated.
Last night we had the pleasure of welcoming back students from the class of 2018 for their one-year reunion. These events always leave me with a sense of gratitude that we, as a community, past and present, have helped in developing the foundations for their future endeavours. It’s fantastic hearing about their journeys and what they've achieved. It’s also an opportunity to remind them that they will always be part of the CGS community.
Mr Richard Baird MBA, B.Ed, ASAM, MACE, MACEL
Principal