Throughout May we are focusing on Manners Matter. This past week we have looked at making sure we use people’s names. Using names can make people feel important and valued. It calls deeply to someone’s identity and individuality. Using people’s names creates feelings of safety, respect and value. This aligns very well with our school expectations of We are respectful, We are responsible, We are learners.
Using polite language has a huge impact on how our message is received. Using the ‘yeah’ rather than “yes’ gives a tone that implies we are dismissive and non-committal. The same with ‘na’ rather than ‘no’. If we combine the full word with the use of people names our message shows that we are being serious and respectful and are more likely to be received effectively.
Using manners at Oxley State School aligns with out Teach Like a Champion focus, specifically Technique 60: Warm/Strict. Be both warm and strict at the same time to send a message of high expectations, caring, and respect. These values will set our children apart, wouldn’t it be fantastic to be identified as an ‘Oxley Child’ because of their magnificent manners?