Being Present
As we wrap up a rich and rewarding Term 2, I want to extend my sincere thanks for the energy, support, and wholehearted spirit that continues to define our community. From camps and trips, to the vibrant performances of the Newsies musical, to outstanding efforts across APS sport and the excitement of our athletics carnivals, it has been a term of togetherness and excellence. Our classrooms, too, have been alive with learning — from exams and oral presentations to those quiet lightbulb moments that signal real growth. Term 2 is often a time of consolidation, and I hope every student finishes the term having experienced success in some form — and with a sense of pride and confidence heading into the break.
As I shared with staff this morning, while these major events shape our memories, it is the small, everyday moments — a kind gesture, a quiet encouragement, a thoughtful check-in — that shape our culture. These unseen interactions are what truly make All Saints the community it is, and I remain deeply grateful to lead a school so invested in children, in connection, and in community.
I would also like to acknowledge the dedication and passion of all our teachers and staff. Whether nurturing learning directly or supporting it in countless unseen ways, your work sits at the heart of our school.
I would also like to thank you — our parents and carers — for your continued support and partnership. Whether cheering from the sidelines, helping with homework, attending events, or simply being present in your child’s life, your involvement makes an enormous difference. We are fortunate to have such an engaged and invested parent community.
Thank you to all who completed the recent parent survey. I will receive the full results in the coming weeks and will communicate a date early next term to share key findings and how they will help shape our school’s future direction. Your feedback is invaluable and deeply appreciated.
One of the more refreshing ideas I came across this week was featured in The Atlantic. The article, titled “The Dumbest Phone Is Parenting Genius” , describes a growing trend among parents: the quiet return of the landline — not just as a nostalgic throwback, but as an intentional alternative to smartphones and a way to help children learn to be more present in conversation.
That article sparked a conversation in my own home. My wife and I found ourselves reminiscing about our childhoods with a couple of fellow parents — those long, often aimless chats tethered to a phone cord stretched down the hallway. No scrolling, no filters, no notifications. Just a voice, and the space to listen.
The article captured it perfectly: many parents are rediscovering that the simple act of talking — really talking — builds empathy, patience, and attentiveness. And while I am not suggesting we all reinstall wall-mounted phones (though we are seriously considering!), I do think there is something to be said for the idea behind it.
Maybe these holidays, we can all find a little space to be more like a landline.
Try a tech-free day. Create a space in the house for unplugged chats — face-to-face conversations without phones, screens, or distractions, where everyone is fully present. Make a family call to a grandparent — just to talk. Or encourage our older children to have an unhurried conversation without the need to multitask. Not as a rule. Just as a reset.
Whatever your break looks like, I hope it includes time to rest, reset, and reconnect with the people who matter most. Wishing you a wonderful, present, and joy-filled holiday.
Warm regards,
Matt Corbett
Principal
