Hello Preshil community,
Welcome to another edition of the Weekly!
Reflections from Dr Justin Coulson’s recent session highlighted the importance of supported autonomy in helping young people develop resilience. When young people are embedded in a strong, connected community that nurtures independence and personal growth, they become more capable of navigating the complexities of an ever-changing world.
This kind of resilience is deeply woven into the fabric of our school’s values. To be courageous, to be kind, to be collaborative — all of these require our young people to engage with life in an active and resilient way.
I was particularly struck by the idea that being part of a diverse community — with its wide range of perspectives, passions, abilities, and beliefs — will naturally involve connection but also tension. And that’s not only normal, it’s healthy. These moments of challenge and discomfort are not something to be avoided; they are a fundamental part of what it means to be human. Learning to navigate differences, negotiate perspectives, and sit with discomfort are essential skills in developing thoughtful, capable, and resilient individuals.
At the same time, community doesn’t only bring tension — it brings connection, purpose, and a deep sense of belonging. These are the cornerstones of wellbeing, and they form the foundation upon which true resilience is built.
Dr Coulson’s message resonated deeply with our school’s mission: To foster a community that supports students to forge a path for themselves, informed by their passions and talents. In a world that increasingly values frictionless, transactional experiences. We offer an alternative. At Preshil, we recognise that being human is far from frictionless. Real growth happens not in the absence of challenge, but through it. By embracing healthy stress and gentle pressure — never distress — we help our students grow stronger, more capable, and more connected.
Warm regards,
Aaron Mackinnon
Principal
