ES Staff in the Spotlight
Of our 186 staff at Wantirna College, we have 111 teaching staff and 75 education support staff (ES). Primarily the role of our ES is to support teachers and students to achieve the best possible educational outcomes for students. Their jobs vary greatly, with some providing direct support to students in the classroom and some focused on maintaining our beautiful grounds and buildings, whilst others are in the General Office ensuring payments for camps, excursions and programs are processed accordingly.
Our school couldn’t operate without the valuable work they do which is often not as visible as the work our teachers do. However, it is just as vital in ensuring we provide the best possible opportunities for our students. This term, our Staff in the Spotlight will shine a light on the valuable work our ES do and the people in these roles who support our students and teachers.
This week we are spotlighting Talea-Jane Simpson.
Talea is a valued member of our Wellbeing Team and, this term, is sharing the Leader of Wellbeing role with Courtney Moran. Talea runs many of our lunchtime clubs including our Dungeons and Dragons club which is hugely popular.
What is your role?
Adolescent Psychotherapist and currently one of the Acting Leaders of Wellbeing for Term 4.
How long have you worked at Wantirna College?
Three years
Briefly describe your role and responsibilities.
I work closely with my team to support students navigating personal challenges, academic stress, and social issues. I serve as a primary point of contact, offering guidance and connecting students with counselling or specialized support services – such as family support, mental health, housing, financial support, etc. I provide immediate support during crises and coordinate with external services and mental health professionals as needed, and also collaborate with teachers and administrators, recommending strategies to help identify students who may benefit from additional support. I maintain open communication with parents and guardians to promote a holistic approach to student wellbeing, keeping them informed about programs, resources, and ways they can contribute.
To foster a positive school culture, I run lunchtime clubs and events, like Dungeons & Dragons, the Card and Boardgame Club, and the lively FriYAY activities, which are always a highlight. I advocate for a school environment grounded in empathy, respect, and kindness. I also collect and analyse feedback on wellbeing initiatives to make data-driven improvements and I run various programs such as the ADHD Program, which is a neuro-affirmative, strengths-based, program targeted at social and emotional learning and developing executive functioning skills. Next year, I plan to roll out a Music-Based Therapy Group.
The most rewarding part of my role is providing therapy to students, and being able to witness their growth, overcoming challenges, and achieving their goals.
How does the work you do support students and/or teachers?
The work I do as a psychotherapist supports students by providing them with a safe, understanding space to explore their challenges, find solutions, and build resilience. By offering therapeutic support and referrals to specialized services, I help students manage personal, academic, and social stressors that might otherwise impact their wellbeing and learning. Personal wellbeing is the bedrock of self-actualization and growth, and by supporting students in building a strong foundation of mental and emotional health, students can face challenges with confidence, develop coping strategies, and cultivate the resilience and empowerment needed for both academic success and personal fulfilment.
What is the best thing about Wantirna College?
The students and staff. I am grateful for our wonderful people here.
What is the most challenging aspect of your role?
The most challenging aspect of my role is managing days when multiple situations arise, which can lead to exceptionally busy circumstances. The Wellbeing team is fantastic and we support each other effectively, but occasionally finding time for a lunch break can be difficult.
If you hosted a dinner party and had to invite 3 Wantirna teachers, who would they be and why?
A difficult question! I'd probably choose: Ms. Zulfic, as she has a great sense of humour, and we share similar interests. Mr Webster would be another great addition - he is absolutely brilliant to talk to and has a wealth of knowledge on a variety of areas - it'd be fantastic to discuss creativity, mental health and art. Lastly, I'd want to choose an ES member too - Michael is incredibly kind and an excellent baker; he could certainly contribute dessert!
If you were the boss of Wantirna College and had an unlimited budget to spend, what would you spend it on and why?
I would redesign the Wellbeing space and acquire new furniture and decorations to help the space feel more inviting. I would build or designate a room dedicated to holding Wellbeing programs in, and to provide to students at lunch. I would invest more in program supplies, as well as enhancing resources for lunchtime clubs. Additionally, I would also upgrade the Breakfast Club, purchase more ingredients and obtain folding picnic tables for outdoor use. With the weather improving, having outdoor dining and music would greatly enhance the social experience for students.
What’s your ideal holiday destination?
Reykjavík, Iceland. Something about the landscape calls to me. I absolutely adore Icelandic music too.
What do you think is the biggest issue facing young people today?
There are many issues that impact young people today and cannot be pinpointed to one specific thing, given the complexity of human life and our individual differences. However, young people today encounter considerable challenges, including feelings of isolation, a scarcity of communal spaces for connection, the detrimental effects of social media on self-esteem, and evolving economic difficulties such as housing affordability and the rising cost of living, which can significantly affect families. These factors may also contribute to uncertainty regarding the future for young individuals.