Wellbeing

Beginning Of Term 1:

REMINDER: Smile Squad (free dental check) consent due 11 April !

The Smile Squad team from Link Health and Community are coming to our school soon. Smile Squad is the Victorian Government free school dental program. This means all students can get a free dental check-up, preventive services, and treatment at school.

How to access free dental care

We need your consent before we can provide services. Consent is usually provided by a parent or guardian.

OR use the below QR code.

Please complete and submit the consent form by 11/4/2025.

Paper copies of the consent form are available. Please contact the school office if you would like to request one.

The electronic consent form can be translated into more than 100 languages, and the paper form is available in 13 languages.

Smile Squad dental packs

All children deserve a healthy smile, and the Smile Squad free school dental program is working hard to help make sure this happens.

Your child(ren) have received a free dental pack to bring home. The dental pack contains a toothbrush and an oral health brochure. Please take the time to read the brochure. It’s full of helpful hints and tips to help your whole family eat well, drink well and clean well – for life.

Do I need to attend my child’s appointment?

No, you do not need to attend your child’s appointment. You can attend if you would like to, and you can take your child to the community dental clinic if you prefer.

The Link Health and Community Smile Squad team look forward to seeing you soon.

Menstrual Health & Pelvic Pain talk

On Tuesday, 25th of March, the Year 10 cohort was shown a Menstrual and Sexual Health presentation. The session covered important topics, including the menstrual cycle and pelvic pain. Students learned about what a period actually is and how it works, basic anatomy of both male and female bodies, common symptoms that women may experience while being on their period, as well as the importance of seeking help if they do experience irregular symptoms, and how to access reliable health resources. The presentation was informative and helped increase awareness about personal health and hygiene.

Alexis Beaumont, Year 10 Student

The menstrual health and pelvic pain incursion introduced year 9s and 10s to the topic of going through bodily changes during puberty, mainly discussing periods within girls.

This included various matters such as the anatomy of the body, the menstrual cycle, associated symptoms, and how to deal with them.

The menstrual health and pelvic pain incursion provided students with important information and raised awareness about how to self-advocate for themselves when experiencing bodily changes.   

Arabella Calder, Year 10 Student

Funded by the Department of Education and delivered by Sexual Health Victoria (SHV), Menstrual Health and Pelvic Pain program aims to increase students’ knowledge of the physiology and management of their menstrual health, along with educating them on pelvic pain. The program also focuses on increasing confidence in help seeking behaviours and reduces stigma around these topics. The program is designed to be delivered to all genders as it is important for all students to learn about these topics and support themselves, their peers and their community to achieve the best health and education outcomes.

For more information, please visit https://shvic.org.au/schools/menstrual-health-and-pelvic-pain-education-program and https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/supporting-students-learn-more-about-pelvic-pain

Penny Hsiao

Health Promotion Nurse

Wellbeing Report

Supporting Your Young Person’s Wellbeing as We Enter Autumn

As Term 1 comes to an end and the days grow shorter, it’s important to check in on our young people’s mental health. The change in season can bring shifts in mood, energy levels, and motivation. Some students may find it harder to stay active, socialise, or keep up with their schoolwork.

Signs Your Young Person May Be Struggling

If you notice any of the following signs, your young person may need extra support:

Withdrawing from family and friends
Changes in sleep patterns (too much or too little sleep)
A drop in motivation or interest in things they usually enjoy
Changes in appetite or eating habits
Increased irritability or sadness
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or stress about school

If you’re concerned, start by checking in with them in a calm and supportive way. Let them know you’re there to listen without judgement.

Ways to Support Your Young Person

Stay connected – As the days become shorter, many young people may spend more time in their rooms. Find ways to stay connected, like inviting them to help cook dinner, going for a walk together, or grabbing a hot drink at a café. Even a simple drive together can encourage conversation.

Encourage healthy habits – A good routine, including regular sleep, exercise, and nutritious meals, can help maintain energy levels and mood.

Promote balance – Schoolwork is important, but so is downtime. Encourage activities they enjoy, whether it’s sports, music, or creative hobbies.

Seek help if needed – If your young person is feeling overwhelmed, remind them they’re not alone. The school Wellbeing Team is here to support them, and professional help is available if needed.

A Healthy Autumn Recipe: Classic Pumpkin Soup

Cooler weather calls for warm, nourishing meals. This simple and healthy pumpkin soup is packed with vitamins and perfect for a cosy autumn evening.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 kg pumpkin, peeled and chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 potato, chopped (for extra creaminess)
4 cups vegetable stock
1/2 cup cream (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Method:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
Add the pumpkin, carrot, and potato, stirring for a few minutes.
Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Blend the soup until smooth using a stick blender.
Stir in coconut milk or cream, if using, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and enjoy!

This nourishing meal is a great way to bring the family together as the seasons change.

Where to Get Help

If you’re concerned about your young person’s wellbeing, the South Oakleigh College Wellbeing Team is here to help. Reach out to us or visit trusted resources like headspace (www.headspace.org.au) and Beyond Blue (www.beyondblue.org.au) for support.

Let’s work together to support our young people through the changing seasons. Have a restful and safe autumn break! 🍂

Warm regards,

Elizabeth Smith

Director of Student Wellbeing