| Maiden speech December 2017 |

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatu-Allahi Wabarakaatuh

Firstly, I would like to show my respect and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Land, of Elders past and present, on which this meeting takes place.

It is an appropriate time to acknowledge the hard work put in by all the members of the Al Hikma community; from the most junior members of the school – kindergarten, all the way through to the staff and school leaders. Under the guidance and leadership of Ms Gamieldien; supported by Mrs William, Al Hikma has established itself within the Islamic School sector as an up-and-coming school with a strong and supportive community. I would like to acknowledge the dedication that these executive staff members have delivered throughout their years at the college and although Ms Gamieldien will not be with us in 2018, I wish her nothing but success in and all the very best in her future endeavours.

I am excited to be taking on the role of principal in 2018 at Al Hikma. I have been an educator in Islamic schools for 16 years across primary and high schools. I have had various leadership roles throughout my career. During this time, I have worked with hundreds of teachers and thousands of students. I have worked in very different school environments including the largest Islamic school in Australia as well as the smallest.

Although school contexts differ, and indeed, no two students are ever identical, I have shaped my philosophy about what makes a school successful; and it is the foundations upon which a school is built. To this end, I have three areas that I believe are important and which guide my practice as an educator. These may help you better understand my vision for the future:

1. Actions, not words. To lead by example is one of the best gifts we can give our children. When our children witness how to lead successful and fulfilling lives, they too will endeavour to do the same. We must walk the walk and not simply talk the talk.
2. Have high expectations. In everything. This doesn’t mean that every single child will always gain a perfect score in an exam. It is all about completing tasks well (however seemingly mundane; such as ruling the perfect margin, or making their bed every morning) that will help our children develop into responsible citizens who hold themselves to such high standards, that they can’t help but succeed.
3. Have a sense of community. This is so important. Children need to belong to a community and know that they are valued. This sense of belonging must be nurtured by teachers, schools and parents, if we want our children to grow up to one day be contributors to their community, their families and their colleagues. The role of families is so important during these primary years. My son is actually graduating from year six, as I stand here today and I have made it a priority that he values and cherishes his family.

I believe schools are an extension of these three values. We are a family of families, working together to improve our children’s lives. Inshallah, by having high expectations, and showing them that we support them, the students of Al Hikma will continue to succeed in 2018.

Mr. Alan Khoder
Principal