‘Significant learning stems from a significant relationship’: farewell and thank you

In his opening address on 1 February 1989, the inaugural Head of Junior School Donvale, Don Brown, said:

‘Carey Junior School Donvale has begun with its tender roots drawing upon proven and valued Carey traditions – its breadth of program and encouragement of excellence.’

Just seven years later at the opening of the new Donvale Preschool in 1996, the then Head of School, Helen Telford, reinformed this commitment.

‘Every child is unique. Beginning with the very youngest members of our Carey community we aim to engender and nurture confidence and self-worth in every child. Within a framework of Christian values, Donvale creates a secure environment which provides warmth, compassion and good humour.’

The school has expanded over the past 36 years, growing from a staff of 13 and a cohort of 79 to a staff of over 40 with close to 300 students. The Carey of today seeks to uphold the core values of Care, Respect and Growth.

Whilst we are again on the cusp of change as we look forward towards 2025, rest assured the DNA of the School will remain true. The changes to the leadership model will see a welcome sharing of resources and expertise between both campuses. Junior School, with campuses at Kew and Donvale, will be stronger and, at the heart of these changes, is the children’s wellbeing and learning.

Reflecting on the past 22 years, I am proud to have contributed to an ever-evolving school with teachers who are committed to their craft and who feel a shared responsibility for all the children in the School, not just those in their direct care. It is a school that is secure, yet flexible, progressive and challenging, and one that allows the children to gain independence and take responsibility. I feel privileged to have been supported by strong leaders who have been empowering in their approach, and I am grateful to have worked alongside a community of parents who have actively championed Carey and who have been prepared to invest priceless time and energy into their children’s future.

Over the journey, the staff and parents have come to know my mantra. A mantra that has guided my leadership and my teaching, and a philosophy that I am sure will continue to underpin the Junior School approach to education as new relationships are forged: ‘Significant learning stems from a significant relationship.’

With gratitude, my final months at Carey have been cherished. While the vibrant daily life of Carey Donvale will be missed, there is confidence that the school is well-positioned to continue prospering with ‘warmth, compassion and good humour’.

Thank you and farewell.

Steve Wilson
Head of Junior School Donvale