Mrs Chilton, Head of Student Wellbeing

Last week in the Senior School, Meriden staff led a special chapel service for the students. Mrs Brown delivered a sermon about the Samaritan woman who encountered Jesus at the well. She encouraged us all to consider the significance of this story in its historical context and what it shows about Jesus’ love for all people, regardless of the social barriers they may experience in this world. We also heard from staff about how their faith shaped their lives.

One of the highlights of the service was the staff choir, which sang the hymn All Praise to Thee. For weeks prior to the service, ably led by the talented Ms Spooner-Ryan, the staff gathered at lunchtime to learn their parts. Many of the staff were nervous and uncomfortable doing this, and it was a great joy watching them step outside their comfort zones to encourage the girls with this item. When Rev Moss announced the staff choir would now sing and teachers began to spring up around the Auditorium to sing, the excitement of the girls could not be contained.

This experience was a wonderful reminder to us of the importance of community and the power of music. As the staff took time out of their busy days to gather together, new connections were made, and we had fun! As we created music, we felt mutually encouraged and experienced great joy. It reminded me of why we place such importance on the cocurricular opportunities at Meriden. These opportunities allow the girls to step outside their comfort zones, learn new skills, meet new people and have fun!

If your daughter is not involved in cocurricular activities at Meriden, please encourage her to sign up in 2023. If you would like some advice on what activities might suit her, please get in touch with our Dean of Student Involvement, Mr Richard Hughes at rhughes@meriden.nsw.edu.au

Perhaps she might like to join a choir!