As the year draws to a close, we reflect on the growth and achievements of our students at TAS. One key life skill we teach is perseverance. In our ever-changing world, perseverance empowers students to maintain focus and determination, even in the face of setbacks, mistakes, and challenges, as they work toward long-term goals.

At TAS, we recognise that perseverance helps students develop the grit needed to overcome obstacles throughout their school years. It equips them with the mindset to tackle difficulties head-on, encouraging them to see challenges not as barriers, but as opportunities for growth. By fostering this perseverance, we help students build the confidence to push through adversity and continue progressing toward their goals, no matter how demanding the journey may be.

Perseverance and wellbeing go hand in hand at TAS. Wellbeing is integrated into all aspects of school life, our pastoral care system plays a central role in this, offering guidance and support through personal challenges. The library also provides an array of activities for students across Wellbeing Week, with bubble meditation being many students favourite activity throughout the year.

Perseverance is nurtured through various initiatives across the school. Our school counsellors play a crucial role in teaching students practical coping strategies and promoting emotional intelligence. The Outdoor Education program allows students to connect with nature—a proven way to improve mental health. Research shows that time spent in green spaces can reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and improve overall wellbeing.

School counsellor Sonja Gruttemeyer shares some practical ways to support your child’s growth this holiday season:

1. Watch documentaries that promote resilience – Consider watching My Octopus Teacher with your children. This film beautifully illustrates the themes of nature and the healing power of the outdoors. For younger children, Inside Out or Inside Out 2 can help them understand emotions and the importance of coping strategies.
2. Spend time outdoors – Encourage your child to connect with nature. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike, or just playing outside, nature offers endless opportunities for resilience-building. As studies show, outdoor activities foster creativity, responsibility, and confidence, which are all key components of resilience.
3. Mindfulness – Introduce mindfulness activities like yoga or breathing exercises. Simple techniques such as deep breathing can help reduce stress and improve emotional regulation, essential components of resilience.
4. Spread kindness – Acts of kindness, especially during the festive season, can have a profound impact on wellbeing. Consider engaging in activities that encourage empathy and kindness. You can even use resources like the Kind Christmas Activities for Children to inspire acts of kindness.
5. Gratitude exercises – Start a holiday tradition where everyone shares three things they are grateful for. This simple practice can help foster a positive mindset, encouraging your child to focus on the good things in life, even when faced with challenges.

As we approach the holiday season, it’s important for parents, students, and teachers to reflect on the obstacles faced this year and how they were overcome. Recognising these achievements reinforces the belief in our ability to tackle future challenges with confidence. Wellbeing exercises play a significant role in nurturing perseverance, as they help build resilience and mental strength.