Assistant Training Day 2025: A Thriving Start to the Year

The start of 2025 saw over 145 dedicated school assistants gather for an inspiring and action-packed morning at Bialik College. This annual event, now more vibrant than ever, kicked off the year on a high note with a record-breaking turnout. The generous hosts at Bialik College provided a welcoming space and morning tea. So many showed up that the setup had to be moved to the main hall, which comfortably seats 150 participants around tables — a perfect fit for the largest crowd we've ever had.

The day’s sessions offered both emotional insight and practical tools for those supporting students in classrooms. The first session explored a powerful psychological concept known as “holding and containment.” This crucial idea highlights the role of adults in helping children navigate and manage overwhelming emotions, emotions that are often too complex or frightening for children to express in words. The session provided valuable strategies for creating a safe, supportive space for these feelings.

Next up was a fast-paced and highly practical session titled “The Opportunities and Challenges of an Assistant in the Classroom.” Here, assistants were given actionable advice on how to tackle the day-to-day challenges in the classroom while seizing opportunities to make a meaningful impact. The tips were timely and relevant, offering real-world solutions that assistants could immediately implement in their work.

The day culminated with an interactive discussion session focused on real-life scenarios. This was an opportunity for assistants to come together and explore common issues in a supportive and constructive way. The robust conversations that followed allowed for the exchange of ideas, solutions, and experiences, empowering everyone to feel more equipped for the year ahead.

One of the highlights of the day was hearing from Rosalie, who shared the inspiring story of the Posh Opp Shoppes and the profound value of giving and volunteering. Her warmth and connection to others are nothing short of extraordinary, as she brings a spirit of Chessed (kindness) to everyone she meets. This year, we were thrilled to welcome Jason, who made his debut at the event, sporting a stylish POS T-shirt. He introduced an exciting new initiative — a 20% off voucher for assistants to use at the Posh Opp Shoppes, encouraging them to visit and support the stores.

In addition to the rich content, the training day proved to be a valuable opportunity for assistants to reconnect with peers and set a positive tone for the year ahead. With its mix of insightful sessions, hands-on learning, and inspiring speakers, it was the perfect way to launch the year with renewed energy and a clear sense of purpose.

It’s safe to say that 2025 is off to a fantastic start, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds for these dedicated professionals.