Grit as a Mindset
A series of letterboxes form the foundation of a powerful way to build cross-community wellbeing.
Sometimes the best ideas emerge from the most ordinary moments. For Deputy Head Prefect Lucy (Year 12), inspiration struck during a lengthy car journey. "I was trying to think of a way we could implement something small yet impactful and far-reaching enough for the whole School," she explained. During her research, she discovered Connected au, an organisation facilitating pen pal programs between participants and the elderly. "I was inspired by their promotion of connection through letter writing, so I thought of a letterbox where the theme of connection could emerge in a school context."
The result was Wenona's new Grit Box initiative ─ unassuming letterboxes where students can "drop a note or 'pearl of wisdom'" and create tangible connections across the community.
The concept ties into the Prefects' 2025 theme 'No Grit. No Pearl', anchoring the motto in something accessible to every student. Each year group has its own designated Grit Box. For example, Years 7 and 8 share the Middle School box in the Undercroft, whilst other year groups have boxes scattered throughout the campus.
Students write on provided cards, sharing stories, lessons, or advice gained from overcoming adversity. "Some students might reflect on how a challenge became a learning moment," Lucy noted. "Others might choose to give a shout-out to someone they've seen demonstrate real grit."
After signing their names, the students drop cards into the box. Designated sub-school Prefects then collect the notes and may share selected responses during assemblies to create moments of connection and recognition.
For students navigating the complexities of adolescence, Lucy says grit represents something fundamental. "I believe grit is the foundation for reaching our full potential," she reflected. "Especially towards the end of high school, when things can feel overwhelming and burnout becomes more common, grit is essential. It's the quiet force that helps us persevere when things get tough."
The initiative aims to celebrate what the Prefects call "quiet resilience"—those everyday moments of perseverance that might otherwise go unnoticed. Recent prompts have included "What is grit to you, and who in your life demonstrates it?". The themes evolve weekly to maintain relevance and engagement.
The Prefects say that the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with thoughtful contributions flowing in from across all year groups. Some of the most rewarding moments arrive during assemblies. "I can see people share a smile or a cheeky grin. At the end of the day, that's really the goal," Lucy said.
Looking ahead, the Executive Prefects hope the initiative will become embedded in Wenona’s culture. "My hopes are that they can serve a variety of functions, perhaps one day as a valuable tool in gathering feedback or supporting classroom discussion," Lucy said. Providing an ongoing way for the students to notice, celebrate, and learn from the small acts of courage that shape their daily lives.