They say laughter is the best medicine. We all need to laugh. Boys need to laugh, but they also need to be serious.
Living the ‘new’ normal during a health crisis has been a challenge. It can cause anxiety or reduced health and wellbeing.
It’s important to keep our sense of humour – for perspective and resilience. Here are some fun observations from our Head of Senior School, Mr Andrew Potter; demonstrating how he has kept, and encouraged, a sense of humour at Scots.
Mr Potter’s Fun Observations
Fun Observation #1: Every time there is a Glengarry intake I tell the particular group that they are “… the best intake!” and that their dorm “is the best dorm!”. I try to defuse any concerns they have prior to their six-month adventure. Instead, I suggest they focus on positives. Over the years, I have seen and heard students – and even staff – mimicking me. Clearly, my phrases need refreshing.
Fun Observation #2: Recently, the Year 12 boys received their HSC timetable from the New South Wales Education Standards Authority. I bumped into a group of students. They said there were clashes on their timetables. Naturally, I began my positive spin. Quick as a flash, one Year 12 student said, “Hey, Mr Potter! Your Year 12 timetable is the best Year 12 timetable!”. Everyone laughed. I think it’s time to change it up.
Fun Observation #3: During one lunchtime, I was on duty on the main oval, when I noticed a group of boys playing handball. It was the same group of boys I had spoken only a day before, about not playing handball. I walked across to where they were with a slightly black cloud over my head, ready to discuss their short-term memory failings in responsible social distancing. Upon reaching them, they all turned around and showed me they were wearing latex gloves. Every boy! Again, there was laughter. They continued their game of handball and I walked away pondering how important – and essential – humour is when dealing with young people, especially.
Over the last two years, the College has produced a series of Brave Hearts Bold Minds: Growing Fine Young Men podcasts. Mr Potter did one on ‘Boys need to laugh’, which the College sincerely believes is an integral part of developing a strong relationship with its students. To listen to the podcast, click here.
