Why Christian Education ?
As Executive Principal, I get the privilege of taking prospective families on tours of the school and sharing with them all the wonderful features of the College. A common set of questions I often get asked is, “Why would I choose Christian education?” and “What is the distinctive features of your school?” They are important questions that I enjoy answering.
Christian education, as highlighted in the Cardus Education Survey conducted by Christian Schools Australia, has a profound impact on the lives of young people and society. The research underscores that students who attend Christian schools are more likely to develop a strong sense of purpose, a commitment to serving others, and a robust moral foundation that guides their decisions throughout life.
One of the key findings from the Cardus research is that graduates of Christian schools often demonstrate higher levels of social responsibility and community engagement. They are more likely to volunteer, participate in community service, and contribute positively to society. This sense of civic responsibility is deeply rooted in the Christian ethos of loving one’s neighbour, as innately taught by Christ:
“Love your neighbour as yourself” (Matthew 22:39).
This principle is not only taught but actively modelled in Christian schools, where students are encouraged to look beyond themselves and consider the needs of others. Additionally, the research points out that Christian school graduates tend to have a more developed sense of life purpose and direction. This is largely due to the integration of faith and learning, where students are taught to see their education as part of a larger, God given mission. This aligns with the biblical teaching found in Jeremiah 29:11,
‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’
By grounding education in a biblical worldview, Christian schools help students to discern their calling and understand that their lives have a purpose beyond mere personal success.
Flinders Christian Community College exemplifies these findings through its dedication to providing a holistic education that promotes young people who are called, connected, committed and capable. The college’s commitment to instilling hope and purpose in its students is evident in the lives of the staff who exemplify these traits and by providing an environment where students can flourish. By integrating Christian principles into the curriculum and fostering a supportive, faith-based environment, Flinders Christian Community College equips students to face the challenges of life with resilience and a positive outlook.
The college’s focus on character development is another area where it shines. By emphasizing virtues such as integrity, perseverance, and humility, Flinders Christian Community College prepares its students to be leaders who make a positive difference in the world. This approach is in line with the biblical instruction in Proverbs 22:6:
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
By providing a strong moral foundation, the college ensures that its students are well-equipped to navigate life’s complexities with wisdom and grace.
The positive impact of Christian education, as highlighted by the Cardus research, is clearly reflected in the outstanding work being done at Flinders Christian Community College. By fostering a sense of purpose, instilling strong moral values, and encouraging community involvement, the college not only shapes the lives of its students but also contributes to the betterment of society as a whole.
