Welcome to our 2026 academic year and a new series of Inform articles. It is always a joy to share the activities and accomplishments of the College with our community.

At Swan Christian College (SCC), we deeply value and appreciate community. Within our community, we encourage families to spend meaningful time together so that, in the early years, children develop strong social skills and expressive and receptive language. As they grow older, they learn how to speak and relate respectfully to others. These life skills form part of our commonly understood “manners” – the behavioural foundations that guide how we live well together.

In a semi-rural community such as Middle Swan and Midland, faces become familiar. We share spaces, experiences, and relationships. We live alongside one another in ways that are visible and interconnected.

At SCC, we value and empower every student to become all that God created them to be. Character formation and transformation, alongside academic confidence, are core to this mission. Supporting this mission is the intentional development of virtues represented by the acronym CHARIS (the Greek word for grace – the undeserved favour of God):

Courage, Humility, Appreciation, Respect, Integrity and Self-Control.

Character transformation in children is ongoing – and as adults, we too grow in these traits. Scripture reminds us:

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2

These principles become evident in the life of our College – at camps, swimming carnivals, and sporting activities – where students strive to do their best while walking alongside their peers. This behaviour is highly commendable.

However, there are times when all of us behave in ways that are less than commendable – moments when we are not our best selves. In those times, we trust that family and close friends gently redirect us. A lack of manners in a young child is lovingly corrected by a parent; a simple “say hello” is heard as mums and dads model what respect looks like. In these moments, children represent their families.

In the wider community, when behaviour falls short of our espoused virtues, it can become a reputational risk. When students wear their uniform, they visibly represent Swan Christian College. When the College is contacted by members of the public regarding inappropriate behaviour by students and even at times adults, it is not only embarrassing – it impacts on the reputation of our College community. When bus drivers report students not tagging on or off correctly, or behaving inappropriately, this reflects on our College. When staff at local venues contact the College to complain about students being cruel to others on the play equipment, this reflects on the College.

Scripture speaks clearly to this responsibility:

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

Our public persona as a College matters. We intentionally align our messaging, programs, and culture with our virtues and mission. However, when behaviour is not aligned with these expressed virtues, there is a risk to the reputation our College has built – a reputation that has enabled students to be welcomed into workplaces, sporting venues, and even national and international arenas.

As Proverbs reminds us:

“A good name is more desirable than great riches.” – Proverbs 22:1

Let us work together – families, staff, and students – to cultivate behaviour that confirms and strengthens the mission, vision, and virtues of Swan Christian College. In doing so, we reflect Christ in our community and support one another in becoming all that God has created us to be.

Dr Darnelle Pretorius
Principal