Today schools across New Zealand are fundraising for the Cancer Society. At Ficino School Daffodil Day provides an important leadership opportunity for our Head Boy and Girl. They are tasked with internally publicising the event and delivering an age-appropriate assembly presentation to the Junior and Senior schools about the impact of cancer.

This morning you will have seen our Year 8 students’ collecting the students gold coins and handing out stickers. When I asked one of the boys if he was cold in his T-shirt, his response conveyed his sense of duty and commitment to the charity event. He had chosen not to wear his jumper because it wasn’t yellow, and he wanted to set a good example to the younger students whilst collecting. It was uplifting to hear that Year 8 students are thinking of others before themselves and have a developing understanding of what it means to be upstanding role models. 

Serving others is daily event at Ficino School. The simple lunchtime routine of serving your neighbour at the lunch table disrupts the arguably selfish impulse to get what you want first. The table groups can also not begin eating until everyone is served.  Every so often Mr Crompton tells the famous story of the Bamboo Jackets to the children to further emphasise the value of working together to ensure that no one goes hungry. The story is illustrated in this film clip using long spoons instead of bamboo jackets. Either way the restrictions are overcome through serving each other and thereby bringing happiness for all. Story of the Bamboo Jackets

Ficino School prides itself on providing an education that strengthens our student’s character. Giving to charity is an act of service and fosters empathy for those in suffering. Thank you for all your contributions.