Stories That Shape Us
One of the great privileges of working in a school is seeing how stories continue to shape young people. Whether through film, literature, or the stories shared within our own community, we are constantly encountering ideas that help us understand ourselves and others a little better.
Over the years, there have been a handful of stories that seem to leave a lasting impression on students. One of those is Wonder, the much-loved film based on R.J. Palacio’s novel. Many of our students have seen it already, but I often find myself revisiting clips from the movie with Year 7 classes because its message remains as relevant as ever.
The story follows Auggie Pullman, a young boy born with a facial deformity who navigates the challenges of starting at a mainstream school. While Auggie is undoubtedly the central character, what makes the story so powerful is that it is not simply about one person’s journey. It is also about the choices made by those around him. Friendship, kindness, courage, acceptance and integrity are all on display throughout the film.
One of the enduring lessons from Wonder is that character is revealed in the everyday decisions we make. Students quickly identify the moments when individuals choose compassion over popularity, standing up for what is right rather than what is easy. These are values we seek to encourage every day at the College. In many ways, Wonder reminds us that honouring others, showing grace and recognising the dignity of every person are not extraordinary acts. They are choices available to each of us, every day.
As students move through the College, they encounter stories that ask different kinds of questions. In Year 8 English, students explore A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, a deeply moving novel that examines loss, grief and truth. While the story centres on a young boy coping with his mother’s illness, it does so with remarkable sensitivity and care.
Understandably, themes surrounding illness and loss can be difficult. Yet literature has a unique ability to help us explore complex emotions in a safe and thoughtful way. Through stories such as A Monster Calls, students are invited to consider what it means to be human, to wrestle with uncertainty, and to develop empathy for the experiences of others.
The novel reminds us that grief is rarely simple. Emotions can be complicated, sometimes conflicting, and often difficult to express. These are important conversations for young people to engage with, guided carefully by our dedicated staff. Stories like this help students develop emotional maturity, self-awareness and compassion, qualities that are every bit as important as academic achievement.
Beyond the stories we read and watch, we are also part of a much larger story here at the College. On Thursday 20 August, we will celebrate one of the highlights of the school calendar: Multicultural Day.
This day provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the rich diversity that exists within our community. We are blessed to be a College made up of students and families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, traditions and experiences. Together, these differences enrich our community and help broaden our understanding of the world.
Students will have the opportunity to wear traditional dress that reflects their heritage, share aspects of their culture, and participate in the popular OPACVision performances. While there is certainly a healthy sense of competition involved, the event is ultimately about much more than winning prizes. It is a celebration of identity, family, talent and belonging.
As I reflect on Wonder, A Monster Calls and our upcoming Multi-Cultural Day, a common thread emerges. Each, in its own way, encourages us to look beyond ourselves. They remind us to see the value in others, to listen to different stories and to grow in understanding.
At a time when the world can often feel divided, these lessons matter. They remind us that kindness, empathy and respect remain powerful virtues. More importantly, they help shape the kind of community we aspire to be: one where every person is valued, every story is heard and everyone has a place to belong.
I look forward to seeing these themes continue to come alive throughout the term ahead.
God bless,
Mr Steven Owen
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior School
