Looking back now, at almost 50 years old, I can say without hesitation that attending a small, Christ-centred Christian school in my early years shaped the course of my life. It wasn’t just about academics, it was the foundation laid in my heart. The stories of Jesus, daily prayer, and the call to live with kindness and integrity became anchors I didn’t even realize were forming at the time. Even now, in moments of pressure or uncertainty, those early truths guide how I think, respond, and treat others.

What stands out most is the sense of being known and cared for. In a small school, teachers didn’t just teach, they invested in who we were becoming. They reminded us we were created with purpose and modelled what it means to live out faith daily. That environment shaped my path, leading me into a career in education, where I now have the privilege of pouring into others as I was poured into. It also cultivated a heart for service that continues through my ministry at church.

Those early years didn’t make life perfect, but they grounded it. They gave me a moral compass, steady faith, and a deep sense of identity. What was planted then continues to bear fruit, especially in my relationships, work, and commitment to serve. Looking back, I see those years were not just meaningful; they were truly pivotal.