throughout their time at school . For instance , they learn the benefit of re-reading and editing their work . The simple act of re-reading helps put them in the moment , or present , and gives them an opportunity to process what they have written .
On the pastoral front , Junior School boys often engage in activities which focus on relationship building . Occasionally , relationships break down and restorative conversation , assisted by teachers , can help the boys reflect on the moment and uplift themselves individually while also repairing the relationship itself . Each of these reflective endeavours can , I believe , be considered as a moment of mindfulness . These moments exist when boys are considering their present state , improving awareness and engaging with their feelings , meeting challenges and moving forward .
Within the Junior School the boys spend time understanding the challenges associated with their learning . Often , we reference how difficult it is to begin a new learning journey and step outside of one ’ s comfort zone . Normalising such struggle helps boys in moments of reflection . When they look into the mirror at such a moment , we would hope they recognise that it is normal to find the task difficult and that they might ask the mirror ‘ Am I doing my best ?’ or ‘ What can I do next to help myself ?’.
Rather than focusing on a comparison with others (‘ Am I the fairest of them all ?’), we encourage the boys to analyse their own individual progress and celebrate all gains , however small they might be at the time . These small moments of ‘ mindfulness ’ accumulate to contribute to a greater feeling of self-belief and resilience .
Primary-aged students require concrete , explicit and tangible activity to help cement their understanding . Their engagement in prayer and hymn singing during Assemblies is a prime example of more palpable mindful enterprise . However , one could argue that the small , regular and accumulative mindful elements engaged in each day will also have a profound impact on each individual over time . www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 17