Being an integrated Christian School, means the focus of our school is teaching the Bible, its Godly principles and modeling the life of Christ to our students.  Out of that relationship with God, stems all we do.   It is our hope and our prayer that our students will come to accept and follow Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Saviour.  

It is my pleasure to highlight how that spiritual life is lived out at Totara College.

Prayer is the very basis of a strong Christian life and likewise, the basis of a strong Christian school.   This is expressed through the staff gathering for prayer at 8am each morning.   A small devotion is also held on Monday and Thursday’s, led by me as Principal or one of the staff. 

At the start and end of each school day, prayers are said in the classrooms.  In times of need, the class may join together during the day in corporate prayer as well. 

Assemblies:  Assemblies are held on Mondays and Fridays, usually, at 8.55 a.m.  As well as being an opportunity to give out awards to students to celebrate their achievements or good character trait, they listen or participate in a spiritually-themed lesson.  This is led by me as Principal, a staff member, a guest speaker, or one of the classes, who enjoy taking turns to lead assembly.

Devotions are held in the classes on the remaining three days of the week, geared specifically to the age level of the class.  This is usually teacher-led, but on occasions a student in the class will lead it.

Each term we have a Character trait to learn about and work on.  The trait is linked to a portion of scripture which the whole school learns, the age of the student, determining how much they will need to memorize.

Learning and memorizing Scriptures is important, not only for the memory, but it also installs fantastic values into the students.   To qualify for the end of term Honour Roll trip, each student must memorize the set passage of scripture for the term, the number of verses again determined by the age of the student.  Each PACE book also has a scripture verse to memorize and a Christian value that portrays the character trait for that PACE.

We try to discipline the students in a Godly way by rewarding positive behaviour whilst discouraging inappropriate behaviour using measures designed to help correct poor conduct.    Should larger issues arise, we find the Peacemakers Restorative Justice model a useful tool to use.

The school has been an integral part of the Dannevirke Christian Fellowship since it was established in 1978.  It is their core Biblical beliefs and values that form the basis of the school.  The church has two Proprietors Representatives on the Board of Trustees.  The Pastor also plays an active role by taking staff devotions and assemblies at least once each term.   He is also an advisor and confidant to the Principal when the need arises, as well as meeting with students who are in need of pastoral support. 

As you can see, God and His Word the Bible, is not just an add-on here at Totara College.  It is very much a part of who we are, of what we believe and of all we do at Totara College.