Published on: 25 February 2021

  • Message from the Principal

As the details of incidents in Canberra continue to unfold, we learn about a petition regarding young women’s experiences of sexual assault and we reflect on international social movements such as Me Too, it is evident that there is a lot more that society can do in discussing, understanding and ultimately changing attitudes and behaviour towards young women.

Numerous communications that I have read over the past few days from headmasters and principals in the east to their respective communities, acknowledge that they have been on a journey to educate young men about issues relating to respecting females, however agree that they need to do more.

Schools play a vital role in responding to these issues, and as the Principal of Christ Church Grammar School, I set the example and champion the culture and at this School we are absolutely committed to respecting all females and also ensuring all males operate within the bounds of appropriateness.

This generation of young people enjoy many advantages but, equally face changes and challenges that we must help them overcome. The journey is not one we take alone with the students. It is also incredibly important that parents and the school continue to work together, and speak with one voice as we raise our young men. Both at home and at school we must encourage open communication about values and behaviour that is acceptable and unacceptable. Consistent, regular and open discussion is very important.

It is imperative that boys educated at Christ Church learn how to interact with and respect females. Every year, the students in each year group participate in a number of curriculum, pastoral and co-curricular experiences that assist them in understanding and developing positive relationships. Their education also involves numerous opportunities to socialise and interact with female peers from our neighbouring schools in a non-competitive setting.

The School regularly reviews its programs for their relevance and effectiveness and makes adjustments and improvements. However in light of the recent incidents we are now actively looking at ways to strengthen the educational programs taught to our young men to challenge and change the cultural discourse and behaviour.

Alan Jones
Principal