Mental Health & Wellbeing

Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS)

I’m excited to share that this year, our school has joined the Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS) initiative for the very first time. This is a state-wide program supported by the Victorian Department of Education, in partnership with Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and the University of Melbourne, designed to strengthen how schools support the mental health and wellbeing of all students.

As our Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader, I’m completing this training alongside Liz Martello and Belinda Hesse to ensure we build a shared understanding and consistent approach to student wellbeing across the school. Working together allows us to reflect on our learning, support one another in implementing new strategies and share practical ideas with staff so that every student can be supported in a proactive and informed way.

This role focuses on building a whole-school approach to wellbeing, supporting staff, students and families, strengthening classroom practices and helping connect children to the right supports when needed. While this role doesn’t involve one-to-one counselling, it does aim to increase understanding of mental health, reduce stigma, and build staff confidence in recognising and responding to student needs.

Over time, I’ll be sharing information and resources with our school community as we learn more and begin applying these ideas in ways that suit our students and families. The program also supports us to strengthen early intervention practices, develop clear referral pathways and ensure student voice is considered in wellbeing decisions.

This initiative aligns closely with our School Improvement Plan and provides a wonderful opportunity to further enhance the positive work already happening across our school.

We’re really looking forward to growing this area together and continuing to create a safe, supportive environment where every child can thrive, both academically and emotionally.

Melanie Norton

Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader