Wellbeing at St John's
Week 7 Wellbeing Updates
It’s hard to believe we are already in Week 7! This term certainly seems to be flying by, and there has been so much happening across St John’s. As we move through another busy part of the school year, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of looking after our wellbeing, staying connected and finding small moments to pause and recharge. I hope you enjoy this week’s wellbeing update and some of the wonderful things happening in our school community.
🌟 R U OK? Day - Tuesday 8 September
On Tuesday, 8 September, our school will celebrate R U OK? Day by asking students to wear a splash of yellow to their school uniform to support this initiative!
This annual day reminds us that we don’t need to be experts to support the people we care about. We just need to be good friends and good listeners.
This year's theme reminds us that "any day is R U OK? day." You don't need a special qualification to ask someone how they are doing—just a genuine willingness to listen and show you care.
Families can promote RUOK practices at home
Teach your children how to support their friends (and each other) by practicing four simple steps:
- Ask: "Are you OK?"
- Listen: Give them your full attention without trying to "fix" it right away.
- Encourage action: Suggest talking to a teacher, parent, or someone who can help.
- Check in: Ask them how they are doing again a few days later.
By encouraging these conversations early, we help our children build strong connections and a supportive community. For free resources, conversation starters and family tips, visit ruok.org.au.
National Week of Action Against Bullying
Last week, St John’s proudly participated in the National Week of Action Against Bullying, and what a fantastic week it was! Our Year 3–6 students took part in Australia’s Largest Anti-Bullying Lesson, while our whole-school focus centred around this year’s theme, “Small Acts, Big Impact.” Throughout the week, students were reminded that even the smallest acts of kindness, inclusion and courage can make a big difference to others. Tuesday’s Superhero Dress-Up Day was certainly a highlight, with our children making an incredible effort with their costumes. We especially loved seeing some students dress up as St John’s staff members they consider to be their own real-life superheroes! It was a wonderful week of learning, fun and important conversations about the role we can all play in creating a safe, kind and inclusive community.
The Resilience Project
Our The Resilience Project (TRP) lessons continue across the school, with students learning about and practising the important GEM principles – Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness. These strategies are being embedded into classroom learning and everyday conversations, helping students develop practical skills to support their wellbeing and resilience. It has been wonderful to see our students engaging with GEM and finding simple ways to practise gratitude, show empathy towards others and use mindfulness to slow down, reset and be present.
I have attached a little family activity so that you can see the kinds of things that we are doing in this space.
Wishing you a week filled with moments of gratitude. Please reach out if I can help with anything.
Tracey Farrar (Mental Health & Wellbeing Leader)