Respect and Relationships: Strengthening Our College Together
At the heart of every flourishing school community lies a simple but powerful truth: respect. In a Christian school, this virtue is not just a courtesy but a calling. Scripture reminds us in 1 Peter 2:17 to “show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honour the King.” Respect begins at home, where parents and carers model Christlike love, patience, and grace. When young people see this in action – through words spoken in kindness, forgiveness offered quickly, and relationships nurtured with care – they develop a foundation for healthy interactions in every sphere of life.
Within the school environment, this modelling continues. The way staff treat one another, support each other’s gifts, and work together sets the tone for the entire community. Respect in leadership, in collaboration, and in service creates a culture where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged. It is this lived example that equips students to carry respect into their classrooms, playgrounds, and sports fields.
For students, respect shows up daily – in the way they encourage teammates on the sporting field, build trust and kindness in friendships, and use words that uplift rather than tear down. It is seen in how they include others, listen carefully, and choose reconciliation over division. 2 Corinthians 5:18 reminds us that God “reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” This means that even when relationships are strained or broken, choosing forgiveness and restoration allows students to grow in maturity and flourish as followers of Christ.
Respect also extends to the digital world. Online interactions provide opportunities for encouragement but also temptations toward criticism or exclusion. Choosing to love and care for every individual in this space by treating others with dignity is an essential expression of ‘good’ character.
Ultimately, respect is not optional – it is foundational. It strengthens families, deepens friendships, builds unity among staff, and shapes students into thoughtful, compassionate young people who reflect Christ in their words and actions. In every classroom, on every sporting field, and in every online exchange, respect lays the groundwork for flourishing relationships, and in turn, a flourishing school community.
Practical Ways to Show Respect Every Day
- Listen before you speak – give others your full attention.
- Encourage your teammates – celebrate effort as well as success.
- Use kind words online – if it’s not uplifting, don’t post it.
- Seek reconciliation quickly – forgive quickly and restore friendships.
Dr Darnelle Pretorius
Principal