In our community, we often talk about what it means to lead. This year, our Year 6 Class of 2024 provided us with a masterclass in leadership through a different lens: Service.
Earlier this year, a beautiful new “Buddy Bench” was installed in the Junior School. It was a project that began as a simple idea and grew into a lasting gift for every student on our campus, honouring the spirit of community that defines our school.
Service in Action
To serve is to look beyond our own needs and consider how we can uplift those around us. The Year 6 students didn’t just suggest the bench; they raised the funds to support the project through their Mini Fete. From ideation to implementation, their focus remained steady on one goal: making the playground a kinder place for others and supporting students who might be looking for a friend.
Through their dedication to this goal, these students have practiced a vital part of our learning framework. They have shown that true service isn’t just a gesture, it’s a commitment to building a legacy, positively influencing the playground culture, and serving those who need it most for years to come.
A Symbol of Connection
The Buddy Bench is more than a piece of furniture. It is a visible promise to any student who might be feeling lonely or overwhelmed that they have a place to belong. It reminds us of the biblical encouragement found in the book of Galatians:
“Serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians 5:13
When a student sits on this bench, they aren’t just waiting for a friend; they are inviting the rest of us to step into our own roles of service by reaching out and offering inclusion.
Our Thanks to the Class of 2024
We are incredibly grateful to our Year 6 leaders. They have left behind more than just a bench; they have left a reminder that when we choose to serve, we strengthen the bonds of our entire community.
Next time you pass the Buddy Bench, take a moment to appreciate the heart of the students who built it and perhaps ask yourself how you can serve someone in the playground today.
