Wellbeing Team Updates

Year 7 Period and Pelvic Pain Education Sessions

Greater Shepparton Secondary College recently welcomed our Year 7 girls to a series of Period and Pelvic Pain education sessions, delivered in a safe, supportive and welcoming female only environment. We were also delighted to have several mothers join their daughters for the sessions, providing an opportunity to learn together and continue these important conversations at home.

The sessions focused on understanding the menstrual cycle, recognising when period pain is not normal, managing periods at school, and knowing when and where to seek medical help. Throughout the presentations, our Year 7 students asked many thoughtful and insightful questions, demonstrating their curiosity and willingness to learn about their health and wellbeing.

Research from Sexual Health Victoria highlights why education in this area is so important. Around 59% of secondary school students who menstruate report that period pain affects their ability to participate in class, and approximately one in five miss school because of period pain. Early education helps young people recognise that severe period pain should not simply be accepted as "normal" and encourages them to seek support early.

A sincere thank you to Dr Nawres Al-Azzawi for generously sharing her expertise, and to Principal Daisy Utber, School Nurses Tracey Knott and Amy Keat, and PE staff Sarah Weideman and Alicia Cornelius for supporting and facilitating these valuable sessions. Their commitment helped create a positive learning environment where students felt comfortable asking questions and gaining the knowledge and confidence to better manage their health.

At GSSC, we are committed to ensuring every student has the knowledge, confidence and support they need to thrive both in the classroom and beyond.