College Counsellor News

As we approach the end of the year, it’s a time of reflection and preparation for what lies ahead. For many students and families, this season brings both excitement and challenges. Transitions—whether starting a new school year, moving into a different stage of learning, or preparing for life beyond school—can stir a mix of emotions. Similarly, the festive season, while joyful for many, can also be stressful for others.

To support our College community during these times, I would like to share two important Special Reports:

• Embracing Change & New BeginningsChange is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This report explores how families can help young people navigate transitions with confidence and resilience.https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-embracing-change-new-beginnings-au
• Surviving ChristmasChristmas can be a time of joy, but also of pressure and loneliness for some. This report offers practical tips for creating a meaningful, stress-free holiday season and guidance on where to seek help if needed.https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/surviving-christmas-au

A Special Report: Embracing Change & New Beginnings

Change is a natural part of growing up. Whether it's the start of a new school year, moving between year levels, or stepping beyond the school gates for the final time, each transition brings a mix of emotions, presenting both opportunities and challenges. These shifts call on young people to adjust to new routines, navigate unfamiliar environments and develop emotional flexibility. While some may embrace these changes, others may find the disruption unsettling and struggle with the loss of predictability.

Research shows that periods of transition are often linked to heightened anxiety, reduced academic engagement and changes in peer relationships. For families, these periods can also bring added stress. Recognising the emotional and psychological impact of change helps us respond more effectively and supportively.

While change can feel daunting, it also offers valuable opportunities for young people to learn and grow. By normalising uncertainty and encouraging open conversations, we help young people face new beginnings with curiosity rather than fear. When children are surrounded by guidance, encouragement and consistent structure, they're far better equipped to manage life's transitions with confidence and resilience.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-embracing-change-new-beginnings-au

A Special Report: Surviving Christmas

Many people see Christmas as a wonderful time of celebration and an opportunity to spend time with family and friends. However, there are some that view it as a time of stress and hardship. This may be due to a combination of things: financial pressures, relationship issues and, quite often, loneliness, making it a very challenging time.

Often the true meaning of Christmas can be lost due to commercial exploitation, but there are a number of things you can do to create a magical Christmas, without the financial burden. Creating or maintaining traditions can contribute to a sense of comfort and belonging.

Unfortunately for some, there is also an ugly side to Christmas. Support organisations often report an increase in the number of calls from people seeking help due to their inability to cope during this time. If you, or a loved one, is finding that it is all too much, then it is important to reach out to a trusted friend, family member or medical professional.

In this Special Report, parents and care givers will be presented with a number of ideas on how to achieve a stress-free Christmas and where to seek help should you need it.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/surviving-christmas-au

Social Media Changes

With the delay in access to social media coming into effect on the 10th of December, I wanted to share some useful resources. These resources have been specifically tailored to support young people and their families in navigating the changes to social media access:

• Supporting students through the social media delay
• The Social Media Ban: staying informed 
• 7 Tips for Navigating the Social Media Ban  A guide for young people
• 7 Tips for Supporting Young People Through the Social Media Restrictions  A guide for those who are supporting young people
• Staying safe and connected when social media rules change
• There are also a range of other resources available here. They include links to information about peer chats that will remain open, and online and phone support that young people might like to access. 

As we know, school holidays can be a time when children and young people are disconnected from the safety structures provided by school, including daily interactions with teachers and peers that support their wellbeing. With the social media delay coming into effect just before the school holidays, this may result in a potential reduction in online connection, increasing some students sense of isolation over the summer break.

Wishing You a Safe and Joyful Festive Season

As we wrap up the year, I want to extend my warmest wishes to all families for a peaceful and joyful holiday season. While the holidays can be a time of celebration, they can also bring challenges. Please remember that support is available even during the break—whether through community services, helplines, or trusted professionals. If you or your child need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Helpful Support Contacts:

• Head to Health is a free online and phone service to help you find information, services, and resources to support mental health in an age group. They can connect you to local services for support. Some areas will also have face to face Medicare Mental Health Centres or Kids Hubs that can provide in person support. 
• The NSW mental health line is a free 24/7 phone service that links people to NSW mental health services. The service can offer mental health advice, conduct grief assessments and make recommendations about appropriate services including referrals to NSW health mental health services.  They can be contacted on 1800 011 511. 
•  Parent Line  is a free telephone counselling and support service for parents and carers with children aged 0 to 18 who live in NSW.  They can be contacted on 1300 1300 52. 

I look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new year and continuing to work together to support the wellbeing and success of our students. May the coming year bring growth, resilience, and many positive new beginnings.

Karen Surian College/School Counsellor

As we approach the end of the year, it’s a time of reflection and preparation for what lies ahead. For many students and families, this season brings both excitement and challenges. Transitions—whether starting a new school year, moving into a different stage of learning, or preparing for life beyond school—can stir a mix of emotions. Similarly, the festive season, while joyful for many, can also be stressful for others.

To support our College community during these times, I would like to share two important Special Reports:

• Embracing Change & New BeginningsChange is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This report explores how families can help young people navigate transitions with confidence and resilience.https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-embracing-change-new-beginnings-au
• Surviving ChristmasChristmas can be a time of joy, but also of pressure and loneliness for some. This report offers practical tips for creating a meaningful, stress-free holiday season and guidance on where to seek help if needed.https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/surviving-christmas-au

A Special Report: Embracing Change & New Beginnings

Change is a natural part of growing up. Whether it's the start of a new school year, moving between year levels, or stepping beyond the school gates for the final time, each transition brings a mix of emotions, presenting both opportunities and challenges. These shifts call on young people to adjust to new routines, navigate unfamiliar environments and develop emotional flexibility. While some may embrace these changes, others may find the disruption unsettling and struggle with the loss of predictability.

Research shows that periods of transition are often linked to heightened anxiety, reduced academic engagement and changes in peer relationships. For families, these periods can also bring added stress. Recognising the emotional and psychological impact of change helps us respond more effectively and supportively.

While change can feel daunting, it also offers valuable opportunities for young people to learn and grow. By normalising uncertainty and encouraging open conversations, we help young people face new beginnings with curiosity rather than fear. When children are surrounded by guidance, encouragement and consistent structure, they're far better equipped to manage life's transitions with confidence and resilience.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-embracing-change-new-beginnings-au

A Special Report: Surviving Christmas

Many people see Christmas as a wonderful time of celebration and an opportunity to spend time with family and friends. However, there are some that view it as a time of stress and hardship. This may be due to a combination of things: financial pressures, relationship issues and, quite often, loneliness, making it a very challenging time.

Often the true meaning of Christmas can be lost due to commercial exploitation, but there are a number of things you can do to create a magical Christmas, without the financial burden. Creating or maintaining traditions can contribute to a sense of comfort and belonging.

Unfortunately for some, there is also an ugly side to Christmas. Support organisations often report an increase in the number of calls from people seeking help due to their inability to cope during this time. If you, or a loved one, is finding that it is all too much, then it is important to reach out to a trusted friend, family member or medical professional.

In this Special Report, parents and care givers will be presented with a number of ideas on how to achieve a stress-free Christmas and where to seek help should you need it.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:https://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/surviving-christmas-au

Social Media Changes

With the delay in access to social media coming into effect on the 10th of December, I wanted to share some useful resources. These resources have been specifically tailored to support young people and their families in navigating the changes to social media access:

• Supporting students through the social media delay
• The Social Media Ban: staying informed 
• 7 Tips for Navigating the Social Media Ban  A guide for young people
• 7 Tips for Supporting Young People Through the Social Media Restrictions  A guide for those who are supporting young people
• Staying safe and connected when social media rules change
• There are also a range of other resources available here. They include links to information about peer chats that will remain open, and online and phone support that young people might like to access. 

As we know, school holidays can be a time when children and young people are disconnected from the safety structures provided by school, including daily interactions with teachers and peers that support their wellbeing. With the social media delay coming into effect just before the school holidays, this may result in a potential reduction in online connection, increasing some students sense of isolation over the summer break.

Wishing You a Safe and Joyful Festive Season

As we wrap up the year, I want to extend my warmest wishes to all families for a peaceful and joyful holiday season. While the holidays can be a time of celebration, they can also bring challenges. Please remember that support is available even during the break—whether through community services, helplines, or trusted professionals. If you or your child need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Helpful Support Contacts:

• Head to Health is a free online and phone service to help you find information, services, and resources to support mental health in an age group. They can connect you to local services for support. Some areas will also have face to face Medicare Mental Health Centres or Kids Hubs that can provide in person support. 
• The NSW mental health line is a free 24/7 phone service that links people to NSW mental health services. The service can offer mental health advice, conduct grief assessments and make recommendations about appropriate services including referrals to NSW health mental health services.  They can be contacted on 1800 011 511. 
•  Parent Line  is a free telephone counselling and support service for parents and carers with children aged 0 to 18 who live in NSW.  They can be contacted on 1300 1300 52. 

I look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new year and continuing to work together to support the wellbeing and success of our students. May the coming year bring growth, resilience, and many positive new beginnings.

Karen Surian College/School Counsellor