An article was recently published in the Sydney Morning Herald titled ‘Buttrose says Millennials lack resilience, need hugging.’
The ABC chair was asked to reflect on what makes a good leader, and while she criticised the current political leaders, she said the biggest change and challenge was the makeup of the current workforce – in particular, Millennials. “Younger workers lack resilience and ‘almost need hugging’ for regular reassurance.” Whether you agree with the comments, studies have supported the view that resilience in young Australians is in decline.
Resilience is defined as the ability to bounce back from adversity. It is a necessary skill for coping with the ups and downs of life and one of the key ingredients of success. It is directly related to wellbeing; it is about having the ability to cope with and adapt to new situations. Being resilient and positive, with a sense of wellbeing, enables a person to approach other people and situations with confidence and optimism. This mindset is especially important for students given the enormous changes and challenges they are facing now, and of course, in the future.
As we navigate through uncertain times this year, our students have shown that the worst health crisis in memory is no match for this proud and active generation. When we get through this crisis, I am sure that history will show the world’s young people helped to build a bridge from fear to hope and from confusion to understanding. The courage and resilience of our students gives me confidence that young people can manifest the best in humanity – and that is a light that will shine for generations to come.
"By helping students to develop the skills to build resilience, we can minimise the effects of negative, stressful situations. These skills allow students to face challenges, learn from them, and develop ways to live a happy and healthy life."
— Mr Scott James, Headmaster
Available research suggests that close relationships between children and their parents are known to promote and support positive development and increase levels of resilience, especially for adolescents. Furthermore, positive interactions with teachers and a feeling of being valued and supported at school may also strengthen resilience.
Consequently, it is imperative that high-quality relationships and communication exists between school and home as both are critical aspects of a young person’s resilience.
Mr Scott James, Headmaster
01 April 2026
The community is invited to attend the annual Knox Grammar School Anzac Memorial Service for the Old Knox Grammarians’ Association and the Ceremonial Parade of the Knox Ravenswood Army Cadet Unit on Sunday 17 May 2025.
27 March 2026
Over the past year, we have experienced an array of opportunities and achievements that truly reflect the depth and richness of a Knox and Wahroonga Prep education.
24 March 2026
This term, Year 9 students Bancheng, Ahaan, Jeremy and Harvey competed in the Middle School Ethics Olympiad International Final.
