We are fortunate to share our children’s learning journey in a Parallel Learning model.
It genuinely provides us with the opportunity to discuss development and care for our boys and girls in a manner that resonates practically with them.
From a Boys’ Junior School perspective, we have discussed what Stephen Bidbulph describes as ‘two really key aspects of being a good male’; heart (empathy and kindness) and backbone (courage, strength and commitment).
As we have journeyed through a term of being on stage, on the athletics track, public speaking, participating in academic competitions and attending camps, I have asked the boys to be strong enough to speak out, to share emotions, to have the courage to ask for help and to be there for one another.
Boys tend to share and express their emotions through their behaviour, and we know that their ‘risk taking’ is at a higher, yet not always sensible, level than girls, and if we can have these direct and specific conversations with them in a manner that suits their learning style, there is a greater chance that they will be retained.
In our boys’ Assemblies we have spoken about the concept of ‘The line in the sand’, knowing when enough is enough, and the difference between right and wrong. We specifically spoke about respect for and relationships with females, and how the boys need to be aware of where the ‘line in the sand’ can differ re behaviour and interactions with them as opposed to with their mates. Maggie Dent talks about the need for these discussions with boys in this article.
Yet our Parallel Learning model then allows us to participate in music ensembles and choir together, attend Year 5 and 6 Camps together, celebrate Preps 100 days of schooling together, and join tougher for other special events and excursions, so that friendships and respect for one another develops as strongly as it does with those in our daily core curriculum classes.
Adam Kenny
Head of Boys’ Junior School
