A film which unexpectedly struck a deep chord within me recently, was the latest Superman movie. Even though it was an action-packed movie all about a superhero, it was also a story of courage and power of the human spirit.
Walking out of the cinema, I felt hopeful, optimistic and most of all, inspired to be my best self. What captured my attention the most wasn’t the action, special effects, or even the good-looking actors, but it was the powerful character and presence of Superman himself. I found myself in awe of him, as he displayed integrity, humility, selflessness, resilience and empathy. Reminding me of the person I aspire to be.
It might be fair to say that it is these heartfelt human attributes that truly make him ‘super’.
I’ve come to realise these inspiring characteristics are frequently emulated at Queenwood. Whether it be girls helping a friend in need, taking responsibility for their learning, participating in service opportunities or taking part in a school cocurricular activity, I’ve observed Queenwood girls display these ‘Superman traits’.
At Queenwood, we’re taught not just to achieve, but to live by our values of truth, courage and service. These aren’t just words printed in a handbook; they are at the core of who we are. They shape the way we think, learn and act as a community. Funnily enough, when giving it more thought, these ‘Superman traits’ which inspire me are merely synonyms for Queenwood values.
Truth teaches us to be honest with ourselves and others, to seek feedback, own our mistakes and learn from them. Our Courage enables us to step outside our comfort zone whether that’s speaking in front of a large audience during assembly, trying to achieve a new personal best, standing up for what you believe in or deciding not to give up after receiving a disappointing assessment result. But courage isn’t only about putting yourself out there, it's also about opening your heart and being vulnerable. Service reminds us that our actions matter, and that they impact those around us. It makes us look beyond ourselves and contribute to something greater. It makes us aware of the responsibility we have to make a positive impact on the school, the wider community and society.
These values aren’t abstract ideas, they’re lived experiences. When we’re collaborating on group projects, cheering each other on at sport, raising funds for charity or embracing our differing talents during the Q-Factor, these values are evident. Every aspect of Queenwood life is an opportunity to be selfless, honest and strong.
So, in a way, Queenwood is producing its own superheroes. However, these heroes aren’t in the form of caped crusaders but instead in the form of extraordinary young women with their own unique superpowers. For some it’s determination. For others, its empathy, creativity or leadership. We don’t need to fly or lift buildings to be powerful; we just need to live with purpose, guided by an unshakable moral compass.
The Superman I saw on my screen may have been fictional but the heroes I see every day at Queenwood are very real. They grow, learn, lead and live out values which truly make a difference. Superman enacts change in the world, and so does Queenwood, by encouraging its girls to use their unique characteristics for good. And that is why Queenwood is kind of like Superman to me.