As a teacher at Loreto School Queenswood, I am deeply moved to be part of a school that steadfastly upholds faith-based education, embodying the concept of "in loco parentis" — in the place of parents. In today's world, where the relevance of religion in schools is often questioned, our school stands as a beacon of Christian values, nurturing a spiritually enriching environment through heartfelt practices such as prayers, meditation, attending Mass, restorative justice, retreat days, community service, and fostering strong relationships among learners and teachers.
The Importance of Prayer & Reflection
At our Primary school, everyday begins and ends with prayer. This routine not only sets a positive tone but also fosters a sense of gratitude and reflection among our learners. Morning prayers are moments of quiet reverence, where we come together as a community to seek guidance and strength. Meditation and afternoon prayers offer a peaceful opportunity to reflect on the day’s experiences and lessons learned, instilling a deep sense of spiritual grounding.
Witnessing the learners peaceful contemplation fills me with hope and reinforces the importance of nurturing their spiritual well-being alongside their academic growth. Gathering for Mass is a cherished tradition for us. It’s a time when learners and staff alike come together to celebrate the Eucharist and experience the unity of faith. Through the liturgy, learners deepen their understanding of Christian teachings and the significance of community in their spiritual journey. Seeing their reverence during Mass is a testament to the profound impact of these shared moments of worship.
We are Inspired By the Words Laudato Si...
Restorative justice is more than a disciplinary approach at Loreto School Queenswood; it’s a philosophy rooted in compassion and reconciliation.
In times of conflict, our focus is on promoting understanding and recovery rather than punishment. Seeing each learner acknowledge their mistakes, and make the effort to make amends, fills me with a sense of pride.
These moments of growth strengthen our school community and cultivate empathy among our learners.
Inspired by Laudato Si, our commitment to environmental stewardship is a heartfelt response to Pope Francis’s call to care for our common home.
Awareness days dedicated to environmental issues ignite passion and action among our learners. Witnessing their dedication to sustainability through recycling and their enthusiasm for creating positive change in our world fills me with optimism for the future they will shape.
Retreat days offer learners transformative experiences away from their daily routines. These sacred moments of prayer, meditation, and reflection deepen their spiritual connection and strengthen their faith.
Observing their personal growth and renewed sense of purpose after retreats fills my heart with joy. It’s a testament to the profound impact of nurturing their spiritual well-being alongside their academic achievements.
During these retreats, relationships between teachers and learners are deepened as we engage in meaningful discussions and activities that foster trust and understanding.
Teachers act as guides, offering support and encouragement as learners explore their faith and personal beliefs in a supportive environment.
Peer relationships are also strengthened as learners collaborate in group reflections, share personal insights, and support each other’s spiritual journeys. Witnessing their camaraderie and mutual respect reinforces the sense of community that defines our school and enhances the transformative experience of retreat days.
Community service is a cornerstone of our educational philosophy, where faith finds practical expression. Encouraging learners to serve others with compassion and humility is a privilege.
I feel grateful and inspired by their commitment to creating a positive impact in our community through service initiatives, which underscores the importance of empathy and social responsibility that we aim to cultivate in them.
The Heart of Loreto School Queenswood
Witnessing their dedication to making a difference in our community through service projects fills me with gratitude and reinforces the values of empathy and social responsibility that we instill in them.
Being a teacher, I am honored to observe directly the profound impact of incorporating faith into education. In a society where the importance of religion in schools is frequently challenged, Loreto School Queenswood remains resolute in its dedication to delivering education rooted in faith.
Seeing our learners grow academically, spiritually, and emotionally fills me with hope for a future where compassion and faith guide their lives.
At Loreto School Queenswood, we nurture the mind, body, and spirit, creating a supportive and enriching environment where every learner can thrive. Through our unwavering commitment to Christian values and the concept of "in loco parentis," we continue to uphold faith in a secular world, making a lasting difference in the lives of our students and beyond.
Written by Wendy Freitas Vieira, Loreto School Queenswood RE Coordinator
Edited by Marcello Pallozzi and Thabs Nyamane
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