Eltham High School Community News

Student Wellbeing

Breakfast Club

Every Wednesday, breakfast is available during recess just outside Student Services in our Sensory Garden. It is a welcoming space where all students are invited to grab a bite, connect with peers, and start their day on a positive note.

 

Whether you're after a quick snack or a moment to recharge, come along next week and join us for breakfast in the sun!  This week, we served 107 cups of cereal with the support of our students. 

Teen Mental Health in Nillumbik & Banyule 

Recent data from the Nillumbik and Banyule regions has shed light on a growing concern: the mental health of our teenagers. Both quantitative and qualitative findings reveal a complex picture that demands our attention, and our collective response as a school community. 

 

What the data says:  

  • 1 in 3 secondary students reported experiencing high levels of psychological distress. 

  • Over 40% of teens surveyed expressed feelings of persistent anxiety or sadness. 

  • School counsellors and wellbeing staff noted a 25% increase in referrals for mental health support over the past year. 

     

What your Young People are Telling Us: 

Through focus groups and anonymous feedback, young people shared: 

  • A sense of social isolation, especially post-pandemic. 

  • Pressure from academic expectations and future uncertainty. 

  • A desire for safe spaces to talk openly without judgment. 

 

These insights are not just statistics, they're stories.  They reflect the lived experiences of our youth and the challenges they face in navigating adolescence in an increasingly complex world. 

 

In response to these findings, this newsletter will now serve as a dedicated platform to support the wellbeing of young people at EHS. Each edition will share evidence-based strategies that families and schools can use to nurture teen mental health, both at home and in the classroom. We’ll highlight local programs and services that offer practical support to students, educators, and parents, making it easier to access help when it’s needed most. By connecting schools and families, we aim to foster a stronger, more compassionate network of care. We believe that by working together: parents, educators, health professionals, and community leaders, we can build a more resilient future for our young people. 

Upcoming Events and Programs at EHS

CHOICES: Awareness & Self Defense for Middle Schoolers by Tritactics  

Eltham High will host the Choices – Awareness & Self Defense Program, supporting 15 male-identifying students from Middle School in building emotional awareness, confidence, and decision-making skills.   

 

Students will explore: 

  • Emotional understanding & self-awareness 

  • Assertiveness, boundaries & respectful relationships 

  • Conflict resolution & prevention strategies 

  • Navigating choices, consequences, and safe behaviours.  

I CAN Mentoring Program  

Eltham High School is proud to partner with I CAN, Australia’s largest Autistic-led organisation, to deliver a mentoring program for a selected group of Year 8 and 9 students this term.  Launched in Week 1 of Term 3, the program runs over eight weekly sessions, fostering key life skills such as leadership, emotional insight, communication, and teamwork. Participation is inclusive and no formal diagnosis is required.  We're excited to see the growth and connection this opportunity brings to our students. 

 

For additional information, or to nominate your young person for this program, please contact: Mental Health Practitioner, Anna Jenkins: anna.jenkins@education.vic.gov.au  

EHS Food Hampers and Breakfast Club 

We continue to support student wellbeing through the School Breakfast Club, offering breakfast every Wednesday at recess and free fruit and snacks daily.  The aim is to reduce the impact of disadvantages on learning by promoting adequate nutrition, which is essential for energy, brain development, and engagement in education. 

 

Please note that small lunches and snacks are provided by the Student Services team for students with reset passes, those receiving therapeutic support, or those experiencing food insecurity.  While fruit, milk, and healthy snacks are available throughout the day at each Sub-school office, this support is intended for students in need and may not be available to all.  

 

In addition, we can provide up to eight food hampers each week to support families and staff in need. If you or someone you know would benefit from a food hamper, please contact Lyn Davis: lyn.davis@education.vic.gov.au. 

Parent Session

Pornography, Young People and Sexuality – Monday 25 August 7:00pm 

We are pleased to share a powerful educational session facilitated by Banyule Youth Services, led by renowned violence prevention specialist Maree Crabbe. Maree is widely respected for her work exploring the influence of pornography on young people’s development and wellbeing. 

 

This important session will support parents and carers in navigating conversations with young people in today’s digital landscape. This session is highly recommended for families looking to deepen their understanding and strengthen support strategies around youth wellbeing in the online world. 

 

Topics include: 

  • The impact of pornography on young people's attitudes and behaviours 

  • How to foster healthy social and sexual development in a digital age 

 

Bookings are essential.  Please refer to the attached poster in this post for details on how to book.  

Community Resources: Nillumbik Youth Hub in Diamond Creek 

Is your young person looking for a vibrant, safe, and welcoming space where your child can thrive outside of school? The Nillumbik Youth Hub offers just that.  It is a dedicated community oasis designed for young people and by young people.  

 

Why Parents Love It: 

  • Tailored for ages 12 - 25, the Hub helps your child build independence, social connections, and practical life skills in a supervised, inclusive environment. 

  • Whether it’s support services, creative programs, or simply a quiet space to study, your child will find what they need to feel supported and inspired. 

  • Centrally located in Diamond Creek, right near the train station.   

 

Opening Hours: 

General Enquiries & Appointments: Monday to Thursday, 11:00am - 3:00pm 

Drop-In Program (During School Terms): Tuesday to Thursday, 3:00 - 6:00pm 

Venue Hire for Youth Service Providers: Daily, 7:00am - 11:00pm 

healthAbility - Health Therapies for Children & Young People 

For children and young people aged 0 - 18 years, the service is offered in a supportive environment, with a play-based approach to assessment and treatment. Integrated therapies and services mean that there is a collaborate approach to a young person’s health and wellbeing. 

 

The range of therapy services will support a young person to reach their full potential and maximise their abilities.  

 

Contact reception on 9430 9100 to book an appointment. 

MADELINE GAITANIS, Student Services and Welbeing Coordinator