Wellbeing update

Student wellbeing is at the heart of all that we do at Koonung Secondary College. We recognise that students learn best when they feel happy, engaged, connected, healthy and safe. We promote the development of each student by placing emphasis on personal development, self-esteem, respectful relationships and social responsibility. Our students can flourish in an environment where they feel valued, supported and have access to professional and confidential support when needed.  

Our team includes our nurses Penny Lee and Megan Anderson, who manage the health centre; Director of Wellbeing – Kate O’Keefe, mental health practitioner – Emily Ridgwell and our wonderful school counsellors, Eryn Tyler and Ella Cogger.  

Kate.Okeefe@education.vic.gov.au

Emily.ridgwell@education.vic.gov.au

Eryn.tyler@education.vic.gov.au

Ella.cogger@education.vic.gov.au

The team is available to provide counselling for students in need of support and encouragement for any challenge they are facing at school or in their life outside of school. Referrals can be made by students by emailing a team member on Compass,or speaking with their year level coordinator or head of middle/senior school who will assist the student to connect with the team.  

Aside from the day-to-day response through counselling and support, the Wellbeing team is invested in promoting positive mental health through therapeutic programs and lunchtime activities. We are committed to working collaboratively with families and members of staff in the college to ensure that our students are cared for and valued.  

Below is a list of free programs the Whitehorse Council are running for parents and young people.  

We hope everybody has a fantastic year, and please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions 

The Wellbeing Team 

Keeping our Children Safe Online 

Presented by: Gregory Felix Furlong & Michelle Zhao from Think U Know 

ThinkUKnow Australia is an evidence-based education program delivered nationally to prevent online child sexual exploitation.  

The presentation will be delivered by a local law enforcement member and an industry volunteer. The presentation is pro-technology and addresses topics including self-generated child abuse material, online grooming, sexual extortion and importantly encourages help seeking behaviour.  

For more information, you can visit www.thinkuknow.org.au or contact our Parent Resource Office on 0477 329 540  

For: Parents of children and young people aged 5-18 years 

Date: Tuesday 27th February 7, 2024 

Time: 7.PM-8.30PM 

Venue: Online 

Cost: Free 

Parent Zone 

ParentZone Eastern has 7 upcoming parenting programs this term. All groups are free to attend for parents living in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs and are held online via Zoom.  

Talking Teens 

For: parents of children aged 12-18 years 

Dates: Monday 12th February – 25th March (6 evening sessions) 

Time: 7pm – 9pm 

Dads Matter 

For: Fathers and male carers 

Dates: Monday 12th – 25 March (6 evening sessions  

Time: 6.pm – 8pm 

Parenting Anxious Adolescents: 

For: parents of 10 – 18 year olds 

Dates: 12th February – 25th March (6 evening sessions) 

Time: 7pm – 9pm 

Emily Ridgwell

Mental Health Practitioner