I would like to follow up on a number of the conversations that we have had in relation to the wonderful environment that our children at St Joseph’s School at Bulli are experiencing with the integration of Habits of Mind. Under your leadership and the teachers’ enthusiasm this exemplary way of thinking has been incorporated into the ethos and teaching programs and enthusiastically embraced by our students.
What initially struck me about the program is how well it aligns with the graduate attributes we have for our students at the University of Wollongong. Our attributes for our graduates highlight being informed, being independent learners and problem solvers, being effective communicators and being responsible for their decisions in an ethically responsible way. What a joy to see that our children are actively encouraged to achieve this way of thinking from such an early age. Striving for quality in their work, being persistent, listening with empathy and understanding, managing their impulsivity (a special favourite one in our house!) and taking responsible risks are vital to developing successful approaches to life’s opportunities and challenges. These are only a few of the critical ways of thinking that are fundamental to the Habits of Mind but I agree wholeheartedly with the approach