Wellbeing

Beginning Term 3 :

What does Kenko mean to our school?

I got to thinking about the Kenko Centre and what it means to our school. So, who best to ask but the students, who take the opportunity to visit us. Here are some reflections from the students of SOC:

“Before coming to the Kenko Centre, I found it really difficult to attend school regularly and had become quite disengaged with my learning. Since starting here, my attendance has improved, and I feel much more motivated to come to school each day. Emma and Ms Walters have been incredibly supportive and have always taken the time to listen, encourage me, and help me believe in myself. They have created such a warm, welcoming and understanding environment where I feel safe, valued and comfortable. The Kenko Centre has helped me re-engage with school, rebuild my confidence, and look more positively towards my future. I am so grateful for everything the staff have done to support me on my journey.” Year 10 student.

“The Kenko Centre is one of the nicest and most welcoming places at our school. As soon as you walk in, it feels calm, comfortable and peaceful. It is a great place for students to take a break, relax and feel supported when they need it. The centre has a really lovely environment, and the people there are always kind and caring. It feels like a safe space where students can talk, have some quiet time and take their mind off things for a little while. I think the Kenko Centre is a really important part of our school because it helps make students feel comfortable and looked after. It is such a nice place, and I’m really glad our school has it!” Year 7 student.

“The Kenko Centre is one of the places at school where I feel the safest. I can express my emotions without judgement and gain support from some really lovely ladies. The Kenko Centre has also helped me deal with both personal issues and school issues. I've always walked out of the wellbeing with a solution in hand and a clear mind. I can't thank you guys enough! Year 12 would've been extremely hard without it!!”

Year 12 student.

“The Kenko Centre has become a place I know I can always turn to whenever things feel overwhelming or school gets a bit too much. Everyone there is so supportive, welcoming and always willing to listen without judgement. It’s a really calming space, with private rooms where you can talk, a Zen room to take a moment for yourself, and things like drawing materials and fidget toys that help you relax and reset. Knowing there’s a place like the Kenko Centre at school makes a huge difference, and I’m really grateful for all the support the staff provides the students at SOC.”

Year 9 student.

“The SOC Kenko Centre is a dedicated Wellbeing support hub that provides a safe haven for students navigating difficult times, seeking a quiet place to reflect or simply looking for friendly company. The compassionate and understanding staff genuinely listen, offer a helping hand and make coming to school a much more positive experience. Their presence makes a meaningful difference and their support is deeply appreciated.” Year 9 student.

“Kenko Centre is amazing! The staff are always kind and welcoming, and they treat everyone with genuine care. Whether you’re going through something difficult or just need a quiet moment away from people, they’re there for you. When I had friendship issues, they offered advice that really helped me move forward and feel better. The staff there have a way of making you feel seen and understood, even on days when you don’t know how to explain what’s going on. So, if you are feeling overwhelmed about something, it’s okay to step into a place where you can breathe and let someone listen without judgment. Kenko Centre offers that kind of support for anyone who needs it.”

Year 7 Student.

“The Kenko Centre is honestly just a chill place to go when you need a break from everything. It feels calm the second you walk in, and the people there are always really friendly. You can just show up, relax, and feel a bit better than you did before. It’s one of those places that makes life feel a little less stressful”.

Year 9 student.

“The Kenko Centre has helped me in various ways, from rough days to troubles with my personal life. One thing I love about the space is the welcoming feeling and sense of understanding that the people working ther have given me. The Centre is also a place I find great for needig alone time to reflect on things and connect better with myslf to get into a more calming and ready to learn state.”

Year 10 student.

“The Kenko Centre is our school’s go to spot for everyone. It is 100% my favourite place on campus, mostly because of Emma and Ms Walters. Whenever I need support, help or just don’t feel myself, I know I have Emma and Ms Walters to count on. Ms Walters has helped e get my attendance and work up!! She never fails to help me with anything, she is my main support in the school. She makes coming to school so much better by the support she brings to the school and me!"

Year 10 student.

So, if you feel a bit anxious about visiting the Kenko Centre, just remember we are here to help you and there should be no fear of taking the first step to walk through the door. See you soon.

As is gets closer to the end of Year 12-it is flying by, please make a time to come and see us for a study/work/play plan. Bring your planner, some highlighters and a “I CAN” attitude and we will make your life a little easier.

Debbie Walters

Director of Kenko Cantre

BodyKind August and Tips for Parents and Carers

BodyKind August is an annual awareness initiative of Butterfly Foundation, Australia’s national charity for eating disorders and body image. It aims to encourage young people, their families and communities to:

• Be kind to their own body; in how they speak about, nourish, nurture and move their body

• Be kind to other people’s bodies, online and face to face; and

• Celebrate and respect the differences and diversity in bodies.

One of the most influential role models in your child’s life is you. Parents and carers can encourage their children to feel good about themselves and their bodies by

Encouraging your child to talk about what they think and feel about their body- create a safe space for them to share. Puberty can be a worrying time. Reassure your child that their physical changes are normal.
Being critical of societal messages and images (social media, television and advertising).
Promoting eating for nourishment and pleasure.
Avoiding talking about diets and do not encourage your child to diet either.
Engaging in regular physical activity and keeping the focus on health, fun and enjoyment.
Trying to find a team sport they enjoy.
Making informed decisions about sports that have a strong emphasis on thinness or muscular form, e.g. gymnastics and ballet.
Teaching your child various healthy coping strategies to help them deal with life’s challenges.
Placing value on their achievements, e.g. talents, skills and personality characteristics.

If you are at all concerned about your child’s body image, self-esteem or eating behaviours or for more information, you can speak to

Kenko Team
Your GP (family doctor)
Butterfly Foundation https://butterfly.org.au/
Eating Disorders Victoria 1300 550 236

The above information has been sourced from Better Health Channel and Butterfly Foundation.

Penny Hsiao

Health Promotion Nurse