RU OK? Day at Aberfoyle Park High School

On Thursday 11 September, our school community came together to recognise RU OK? Day. It was a day to encourage everyone to start meaningful conversations and check in on each other’s wellbeing. This day serves as an important reminder that a simple question, “Are you OK?” can make a significant difference in supporting our friends, family, and wider community.

The Student Representative Council (SRC) did a stellar job organising a free BBQ for students, which was a huge hit. A variety of lunchtime activities were enjoyed, including face painting, temporary tattoos, garden games and a range of free giveaways. The lively and inclusive atmosphere brought students together and reinforced the importance of looking out for one another.

We were also fortunate to be joined by Onkaparinga Youth. They not only brought along extra games and giveaways, they took the time to have valuable conversations about how to start meaningful check-ins with friends and peers.

A special thank you goes out to everyone who wore a splash of yellow, helping to make the day a vibrant and visible reminder of the power of connection and care in our school community.

Article by Jules Hannaford | Wellbeing Leader

Year 10 Learning 4 Life students lead Real Talk Workshops

Our year 10 Learning 4 Life girls have excelled as they led a series of interactive Real Talk workshops for year 7 students as part of their SACE program. These workshops covered important topics such as health and wellbeing, friendships, cyberbullying, kindness and puberty.

The year 7 students were highly engaged and responded with enthusiasm throughout each session.

The year 10 students demonstrated outstanding leadership and communication skills in planning and delivering their workshops. This experience provided a valuable opportunity for them to develop confidence, while also contributing to the personal development and wellbeing of our younger students.

Congratulations to all involved on such a successful and meaningful learning experience

Article by Jules Hannaford | Wellbeing Leader

SchoolTV special report : mobile phone separation anxiety

Many families are facing the real challenge of addressing mobile phone separation anxiety in their children. With the topic of banning mobile phones in schools generating lively debate both in Australia and around the world, it is important to understand its impact and how we can best support students.

Research continues to show the benefits of mobile phone bans during school hours. A 2016 study found that student performance improved significantly at schools with bans, with test scores increasing by about 6.4% of a standard deviation. This gain is the equivalent of five extra days in the school year or an additional hour of learning per week, with low-achieving students experiencing the greatest improvements. Similar results have been found in studies from Spain and Norway.

Despite some criticism, the evidence highlights enhanced student focus and reduced distractions within the classroom. Addressing the issue of phone dependency is crucial, and open discussions between parents, caregivers and schools can help children adjust, maintain wellbeing, and establish healthy phone use habits.

While adjusting to these changes can be challenging, working together and staying informed will help families provide the best support for children’s learning and wellbeing.

To read the full article, please visit: SPECIAL REPORT: Mobile Phone Separation Anxiety

Article by Lucy Alver | School Senior Social Worker | Support and Inclusion Division

Introducing the 2026 Student Representative Council

We are excited to announce the students who have been selected as members of the 2026 Student Representative Council (SRC). This year, the selection process was highly competitive, with nearly 40 outstanding applications received.

Congratulations to the 18 students who have been chosen for this important leadership role in our school community.

Firstly, we want to congratulate our newly appointed SRC leaders for 2026:

Captains: Teigan D and Heidi A
Vice-Captain: Brodie G
Events Manager: Charlie J
Secretary: Ethan K

Our new SRC members will begin their leadership journey this term by assisting with the upcoming Year 6 Transition Day. This is a wonderful opportunity for them to develop their skills and make a positive impact at Aberfoyle Park High School.

Also, please congratulate the following students who will also be part of the SRC in 2026.

Year 7: Ella R, Ojas J, Rishanth R, Shabdita P, Mary-Jayne G

Year 8: Asifa N, Isabelle J, Charlotte A

Year 9: Jasper M, Leo F

Year 10: Lucy S, Ethan K, Heidi A, Meagan C, Brodie G, Charlie J, Teigan D

Year 11: Oleg V

We wish our new SRC all the best as they step into these roles. Congratulations once again to all our new student leaders! We look forward to the contributions you will make throughout the year.

Article by Jules Hannaford | Wellbeing Leader

October was Mental Health Awareness month

To celebrate World Mental Health Day, students at Aberfoyle Park High School came together to spread positivity and awareness about the importance of mental wellbeing.

Led by our Social Worker and proudly supported by the Girl Power group and the SRC, the Let’s Chalk About Mental Health event transformed the courtyard into a vibrant space of creativity and connection.

Students drew positive images and wrote inspirational quotes with chalk, focused on kindness, mental health and self-care, reminding everyone that looking after our minds is just as important as looking after our bodies. Free apples, upbeat 80's tunes and garden games added to the fun and relaxed atmosphere, helping students take a moment to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.

It was wonderful to see so many students getting involved, sharing uplifting messages, and supporting each other’s wellbeing. A big thank you to everyone who contributed to making Mental Health Day such a positive and meaningful experience

Article by Jules Hannaford | Wellbeing Leader

Aberfoyle Park High School supported Breast Cancer Awareness Day

Aberfoyle Park High School proudly showed its support for Breast Cancer Awareness Day with a special casual day focused on raising both awareness and funds for this important cause.

Students and staff participated by wearing pink, not only as a show of solidarity but also to encourage conversations around breast cancer and its impact in our community. The school community was encouraged to bring a gold coin donation, with all proceeds directed to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

We would like to announce that our efforts have resulted in raising an impressive $524.75, which has been donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. This contribution will help in the fight against breast cancer, funding crucial research and support programs for those affected by this disease.

For those eager to offer further support, the opportunity to make additional donations is provided through the following link: https://nbcf.org.au/donate/

Thank you to everyone who took part in the day, wore pink with pride and helped raise awareness. Your support is making a difference in the lives of many and helping drive progress in breast cancer research and care.

Article by Jules Hannaford | Wellbeing Leader

Learning 4 Life: Estia Health visit

As part of the Design Thinking unit, our Learning 4 Life students recently visited Estia Health Aged Care Home. This visit provided students with the chance to connect directly with residents and learn more about their lives, interests, and personal stories.

The purpose of the visit was to help students understand their 'clients' so they could design and create a thoughtful, handmade gift to offer each resident. Throughout the day, students conducted interviews with residents, demonstrating empathy, curiosity and kindness. Many residents shared memories and life experiences, making it a valuable learning opportunity for everyone involved.

Our students and residents enjoyed the opportunity to share stories and connect across generations.

The students will visit Estia Health again in two weeks to present the residents with their gifts. We look forward to seeing the residents' responses to these thoughtful, student-made creations.

Article by Jules Hannaford | Wellbeing Leader

SchoolTV supporting young people: understanding and responding to substance experimentation

Experimentation with substances such as alcohol, vaping, or drugs is, unfortunately, a common part of many adolescents’ lives. While occasional use may appear harmless, it can sometimes develop into risky or harmful patterns more quickly than expected.

Curiosity, peer influence, and the pressures of stress are often key drivers, compounded by today’s easy access and widespread social acceptance, which makes early exposure more likely than ever.

It is important to be aware that substance use can significantly affect a young person’s mood, judgement, learning ability and relationships. In some cases, it may even be a sign of deeper challenges, such as anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem.

As adult carers, your role in prevention and support is vital. Staying connected, recognising early warning signs and maintaining calm, honest and supportive conversations can make a significant difference. By offering awareness, guidance and compassionate care, families can empower young people to make safer choices and develop healthy coping strategies that support their wellbeing through adolescence and beyond.

To read the full article and learn more about how you can support the young people in your care, please click here.

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