The Importance of Growth in Education

At MLC School Growth is one of our School Values because we believe it is a vital part of a girl’s learning journey and it is the value we focus on during Term 4.

Each and every student has boundless potential that, along with parents, we aim to develop.

Growth is about being flexible, persevering and aiming for our personal best. This is about more than just academic results. We encourage our students to stretch themselves, embrace challenges and take pride in their progress – no matter what that looks like.

Growth is about developing as a whole person – intellectually, socially, and emotionally. It’s the idea that skills and abilities can improve with effort, practice, and a positive attitude. This ‘growth mindset’ helps children see setbacks as opportunities to learn, not as reasons to give up. When students understand that mistakes are a natural part of learning, they become more resilient and confident in facing new challenges.

At MLC School we aim to create a safe environment where the girls feel comfortable making mistakes. By reflecting on what didn’t work and trying again, students develop perseverance and problem-solving skills.

In the Junior School we talk and learn about having a growth mindset (a name coined by Carol Dweck, a Stanford University psychologist). A growth mindset is the belief that a person’s capacities and talents can be improved over time.

Parents and carers play an important role in fostering a growth mindset. Here are a few ways you can encourage your child’s growth at home:

  • Celebrate Effort: Notice and praise your child’s hard work, not just their achievements. A simple ‘I’m proud of how hard you tried’ goes a long way.
  • Normalise Mistakes: Share stories about challenges you’ve faced and how you overcame them. Let your child see that everyone makes mistakes and that we can all learn from them. When your child makes a mistake or does the wrong thing, ask them what they can learn from this.
  • Encourage Curiosity: Support your child’s interests, ask questions together, and explore new topics. Learning is an adventure!
  • Model Resilience: Show your child how you handle setbacks with a positive attitude and a willingness to try again.

Term 4 is a terrific time to look back and reflect with your daughter on how much she has grown and the effort she has put into her growth.

Together, let’s inspire a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing