Serpell Primary School

I wrote to no less than 10 primary schools in Eastern Melbourne to take Kristine and Kimberley in on short term basis during their northern summer holidas. Most replied to say their respective classes were full. Two agreed to take K and K but just Serpell with its International school accreditation was allowed by the state to take temporary students.

The principal Ms Culton was a very friendly person. She had two boxes of books and stationery ready for Kristine and Kimberley when we went to meet her. "We have been expecting you!" was her welcoming statement. She last wrote to me in June. She is obviously a very organised person, and a very dedicated educationist. On their first day after school, she led 3 other school staff/teachers to direct traffic outside the main gate. A leader by example as well.

In my opinion, Ms Culton examplifies the level of professionalism towards her job. She saw her role 'to serve', 'to help'. Her actions reflect that. She even was so thoughtful as to suggest to us not to buy Kristine and Kimberley school uniforms for 15 days use. Somehow she found two sets for the kids for temporary use. How many principals would bother to go that far?

Ms Culton was invited to visit China several years ago. She thinks Beijing airport looks like a space station. She told us she visited Beijing Normal University, and #1 Primary School in Suzhou. "Your government was very kind to me". I told her our two kids have to adjust to the rigid discipline in Beijing schools. The conversation went on to Ms Culton relating a discussion she had with a Professor of Education in the US. A China born and raised gentleman who was later educated and settled in Illinois. He told Ms Culton when he was young and asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, most kids would reply what their parents had wanted them to become: doctors, lawyers etc. When he asked his 5yr old US born daughter what she wanted to be when she grew up, her reply was :"I want to be an elephant".

The distinction here is that in the west, kids are allowed and encouraged to dream.

According to Ms Culton, the direction taken maybe very different in the educational systems, but there is no discernable difference in result.


Photos: Their day 1 without uniforms
Fees: $200 per child each school year for Aust residents and citizens
The school can take foreign students at $200 per week per child but must be accompanied by a parent (grandparent does not qualify)