In early Term 4, 2017, Dr Ted Boyce and some senior staff visited the school. Three aspects about school life are considered when assessing the possibility of such a transition: What is the heart of the people already there? Educationally, can it be sustained and developed? Can there be a business structure that works? The Pacific Hills team found that the existing community really did want a Christian school in their area and were committed to quality Christian education. A business plan was developed and approved by the governance leaders of the Pacific Group of Christian Schools (PGOCS). Before the end of Term 4, the community celebrated that their hope of continuing had been realised and the school would continue as Pacific Brook Christian School. Both David O’Hara and Jess Dugan agree that the transition from Muswellbrook Christian School to Pacific Brook Christian School (PBCS) was definitely the hand of God, stirring the faith of those involved and equipping them for the next stage of the school’s life. As David comments, “Looking back, seeing God’s hand at work, gave us a deepening faith and vision of the school for teaching, learning and serving. What seems impossible to man is not impossible to God.” Jess also commented on how she has seen God equip people, including herself, for the tasks and roles He had prepared for the team at the Brook, noting that “God allows trials for a reason. It is important to respect the seasons He helps us to go through”. Becoming a part of the PGOCS community has brought much blessing to the staff and families of the ‘Brook’. The sense of community, the feeling of care and commitment continued through the transition. God has also helped them at other important stages in the school’s growth. For example, on the night before a crucial Education Department registration visit to begin teaching Year 7 students, the Principal David sensed God was telling him to back-up their files to a USB. David obediently complied. When he and the staff arrived the next morning, their server had gone down overnight, the internet wasn’t 37
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