An “Unstoppable” Welcome

We are thrilled to have our campus abuzz with the sounds of happy students. Our return to school on 17 January was a special day for the Girls’ Prep as we had new and returning students joining us for their first day back.

As has become a tradition at our school, we introduce a theme each year; this year being no different! Our theme, “Unstoppable, Together We Rise”, aligns with previous themes and builds onto the Girls’ Prep journey of developing self-confidence, determination and resilience as character traits for all our students. For us, to be ‘unstoppable’, is to believe in oneself, and to enable and empower hidden potential. It takes our journey one step further. While the development of individual strong character traits is critical, we too believe in the need to mobilise the combined strength of our community. As individuals, we are activators, as a diverse community, we are multipliers. With God’s direction, we are unstoppable! 

Our theme is centred on the work of Carol Dweck as we encourage the development of a Growth Mindset. It is intentionally providing educational opportunities for students to understand that through consistent effort, learning from experience and failure, grit and persistence, our abilities and potential can shift and change beyond expectation. The possibilities become further pronounced when we extend this to the development of a Benefit Mindset. Theorist, Ashley Buchanan, refers to this as a purpose-driven mindset where we move from being the best in the world to being the best for the world. It is here that the Girls’ Prep differentiates itself. Not only do we believe in the growth potential of our students and staff; we too believe in the ability to develop future leaders who may serve the needs of local and global communities as we seek sustainability and peace for humankind. 

Our theme resonates deeply with the African philosophy of Ubuntu. This is very much like the proverb, "Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable," which emphasises interdependence and community over self-centredness. We rise together, recognising that unity is key to overcoming challenges. As another proverb says, "If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."

“Unstoppable, Together We Rise” also complements our Diversity goal of building acceptance and a sense of belonging. Like the proverb, "A single bracelet does not jingle," it highlights the need for collective effort and harmonious collaboration. This is the essence of "One and All" – together, we are an unstoppable force for good.

In conclusion, "Unstoppable, Together We Rise" is a powerful theme that encapsulates Girls' Prep's core values: individual growth, community strength and service to the world. It is a call to action to strive for excellence, both personally and collectively, while embracing diversity and working towards a better future for all.

Our hearts see your hearts! 2024 opens its doors to each individual as we eagerly anticipate happy fulfilment. We cannot wait to seek goodness, grow goodness and share goodness!