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Kia ora koutou
Fifty years ago, Professor Richie Poulton began a longitudinal study in Dunedin, tracking 1007 children up to this day. This study is considered as one of the most important in the world. He highlighted a key finding from the study, which is that self control is the most significant predictor of success in life. From as early as two years old, children’s levels of self-control were evident. Taking into account socio-economic factors and context, tracking the participants over 50 years has shown that participants’ EQ (emotional quotient) has mattered more than the IQ (intelligence quotient). Over time, participants who had stronger self management from an early age were more focused, found it easier to make friends, achieved better at school, had positive relationships as adults and they generally made choices that helped them lead positive and successful lives.
When we consider this finding in the context of a pandemic and a general increase in societal anxiety, stress and trauma, mental health is another learning area we need to understand and know more about.
At QPS, we have initiated ways of helping our students feel happy and safe at school by creating warm and welcoming environments, providing counselling via our school social worker, having safe spaces to withdraw to and a buddy system. Our restorative process used in our behaviour management system offers children an opportunity to explain and share their actions and work towards positive outcomes moving forward. Our ‘zero tolerance’ to violence philosophy means any type of bullying is unacceptable and will be followed up. Throughout this process we are constantly reinforcing self management strategies to use in the future.
I hope you have a wonderful weekend! Mine will be spent weeding the gardens and including a trail ride as the weather outlook seems great!
Nga mihi nui
Fi Cavanagh
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