
WORDS: Michelle Cockrell
As I shared last month, our College is built upon three foundational pillars: Character, Commitment, and Community. This month, I would like to focus on Community, exploring its significance within our ECC family.
At Ellenbrook Christian College, we place a high value on the strength and unity found in community.
Community isn’t just about being part of a group; it’s about forming bonds that uplift, challenge, and support each of us as we learn and grow together. Our goal and desire is for every student, family, and staff member to feel connected and valued as part of this greater family—where each person’s unique strengths and gifts contribute to the collective success and well-being of all.
From the first page, the Bible tells us that we were created to enjoy a relationship with God (Genesis 1) and relationships with each other (Genesis 2). Our relationships bring us joy, but they may also bring challenges. For a community to thrive, where challenges or conflict exist, members seek to restore relationships by working together to understand, forgive, and build each other up with respect and compassion. By doing so, we build stronger connections that benefit one another and ultimately, the entire community. For all our students, we aim to make ‘community’ a lived experience that enriches their educational journey and develops character. As we continue to grow, we are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels they belong, can thrive, serve, and contribute meaningfully.
Why does Community matter?
Research indicates that a sense of belonging instils accountability and respect for others, teaching students that their actions impact those around them. This understanding prepares our students to lead and serve beyond the school grounds, carrying with them the lessons of unity and cooperation that define a healthy community.
In recent weeks, we had the privilege of interviewing applicants for the 2025 Student Leadership Team. We were incredibly proud of these fine young men and women who articulated their thoughts, passions and vision for what could be. They are dreaming big! Well done Mums and Dads, you have done a superb job in raising your children and we feel deeply privileged to be partnering in this journey with you. Listening to these students share their reflections on the College, their teachers, and the ECC community was uplifting. Throughout the interviews, our prospective leaders shared numerous ideas for strengthening bonds between the Primary and Secondary communities. Their creativity and willingness to invest in others is inspiring, and we believe that we are indeed stronger together than we are alone.
Our desire is for all our students is to be prepared for life in all its richness, both during and beyond their school years. We seek to nurture them as lifelong learners—trustworthy, committed, informed, discerning, wise citizens, and compassionate community members.
Building Our Community Together
We are all called to actively contribute to the health and strength of our school community. It’s not merely an observation; it’s a commitment we make together. Let us encourage one another, respect our differences, and seek unity in all our endeavours, nurturing an environment where everyone feels they belong.
A final thought:
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
1 Peter 4:10
Thank you for being an integral part of our ECC community. Together, we look forward to celebrating this term’s milestones and witnessing the ongoing legacy of a supportive, thriving community at Ellenbrook Christian College.
