Wellbeing and Inclusion Update

Welcome to 2026!

It’s been wonderful to see the excitement and enthusiasm as students settle into their new learning spaces. The start of a new school year can be both exciting and a little challenging as children adjust to new routines, build friendships, and get to know their teachers. Encouraging positive self-talk about the year ahead can really help, and if any concerns come up, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher, we are here to support them every step of the way. Building strong partnerships between school and families is an important part of our community.

Wellbeing supports 2026

Athol Road Primary School is extremely fortunate to have an Allied Health Team that supports our students and staff. Our team includes:

• Louisa Trainer & Ashleigh Barber – Educational and Developmental Psychologists support students with social-emotional wellbeing, learning challenges, and emotion regulation.

• Ella Mechelen, Sophie Bird & Michelle Pickering – Speech Pathologists support students with speech, language, and communication skills to enhance learning and social interactions. Our speech pathologists also oversee our language and literacy program, which supports students’ language and literacy development. Trained Education Support staff assist with the delivery of this program.

Our Allied Health Team works closely with teachers and families to ensure every child has the support they need to thrive at school. This collaborative approach reflects our strong sense of community and shared responsibility for student wellbeing.

At Athol Road Primary School, our practices are neuroaffirming and grounded in respect for each child’s individuality. We believe all students have the ability to achieve and thrive, and we maintain high expectations while celebrating who they uniquely are. Through inclusive and innovative practices, we create learning environments where strengths are recognised, differences are valued, and every student feels a strong sense of belonging.

Together, these approaches bring our RICH values — Respect, Innovation, Community and High Expectations to life every day in the way we support our students.

Connected, supported, thriving. 

Rachel Gathercole

Assistant Principal – Wellbeing and Inclusion