You may have read the Schoolzine or Facebook messages earlier this week that I am finishing my time at St Thomas More’s at the end of this school year. What an excellent experience I have had at St Thomas More’s since I first arrived in May 2013!

It has been my privilege to share time with children whether it be Monday Craft, Relaxation Sessions or Deployment Groups or even a quick hello and update on the playground.

I have often marvelled at the resilience and adaptability of children of Defence Families. When new to St Thomas More’s, they put so much energy into learning new faces, new routines and trying to find their own rightful place in the community. When their parent/s are away, they can ride the rollercoaster of feelings: sad, dejected, angry, excited, proud and happy at the various stages of the absence, sometimes without necessarily being able to recognise or articulate these feelings. When posting away from St Thomas More’s, I have heard children describe their emotions as exited, happy, sad, nervous, angry, lost – and most often a combination of these feelings at the same time. No surprise that different children have different capacities to deal with these sometimes challenging circumstances. I believe the Defence School Mentor position is so important for supporting these children and their families and it has been an honour for me to be in this role.

Over and over again, two things stand out to me – relationships and communication. I feel St Thomas More’s is a particularly special community (including children, parents and staff) because generally we really try our best to nurture good relationships and communication through our ethos of Respect More, Encourage More and Think More. I feel so proud of our children when I observe them looking out for others.

My special farewell and best wishes to the families who are relocating. Thank you for your participation and contribution to St Thomas More’s. All the best for a safe and happy trip and settling into your new homes, school and workplaces.

To one and all, wishing you a wonderful Christmas and New Year and safe and happy holidays. All the best to you!

Sonja Mingay
DSM