How values shape the impact of our learning and teaching
Values are more than words at Avondale. They shape who we are and what we do.
Excellence at Avondale is often unseen and unheralded, but our top rankings in Quality Indicators of Learning and Teaching surveys and in The Good Universities Guide show our students recognise and appreciate it.
Spirituality is particularly evident this year. A student leader said as much during a recent academic meeting, referring to the number of on-campus students in Bible study groups. We’re committed to enhancing spirituality, and I praise God for the leadership of our chaplains, pastoral team and residence directors. In my conversations with staff members and students, I’m reminded of the power of prayer—yours included—to build and bless.
In holistic education, wellbeing and service are connected to spirituality. Our lifestyle medicine expert Professor Darren Morton regularly reminds us and students in our Foundations of Wellbeing class that: blue and green should often be seen; motion creates emotion; together feels better; food feeds your mood, and; rest to feel your best.
Service is integral to campus life. I appreciate the diverse and creative ways we model “a greater vision of world needs.” Our staff members coordinated service learning trips—to Cambodia, Mauritius and Melbourne this past year. And our student worship program SALT supports a school chapel program. Many serve faithfully behind the scenes.
This verse reminds us of what the impact of our learning and teaching should be. “Don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God” (Hebrews 13:16, NLT). You’ll find our Impact Summary on this blog. Thank you for your ongoing prayer and support.
[x_recent_posts type="post" count="3" tag="kerri-lee-krause" orientation="horizontal" fade="true"]