Student Well-being
Welcome to the 2026 school year! We hope everyone has had a wonderful holiday spending quality time with your family and that you have returned feeling refreshed and ready to commence the exciting adventures of term one at SCC 😊
The start of school is a time of mixed emotions for parents. Your children spend so much time at school each day and we want your children to be happy. The most important influence on your child’s learning, other than you, is your child’s teacher. It is essential that parents and staff work together in partnership to create a wonderful school environment. One that is safe and supportive, for children to learn in; so that they are inspired to be the best that they can be. Effective communication is an important part of this partnership. Please remember to reach out if you need.
RAINBOWS
Our groups from last year have continued this term from week two.
As this current program draws closer to the end, there will be an expression of interest form sent home to families from Pre-Primary to Year 6. It will explain the Rainbows program in detail for those new families who are not familiar with its content.
In the meantime, if there have been any changes to your family circumstances over the holidays, including sickness or family members or pets passing away etc, please remember to either speak with your child’s teacher or you may email me at kerry.browne@cewa.edu.au.
FRIENDSHIPS
Making friends plays an important part in your child’s social and emotional development.
Attributes such as social competence, self-esteem and self-confidence have all been found to be positively correlated to having friends.
Studies show that friendships help children to learn more about themselves, provide a sense of belonging, assist in academic performance and most importantly, help with overall wellbeing.
Below is a colourful and practical poster “Tips for Making and Keeping Friends to help guide and support your child in developing healthy friendships. You may have a spare space on the fridge where it can go for all to see. These tips can benefit big people also 😊
Have a great start to the 2026 school year everyone and please remember to reach out if you feel the need.
Warm regards,
Mrs Kerry Browne
Student Well-being Coordinator
Supporting Students Through the Transition into a New School Year
The beginning of a new school year is often filled with excitement, fresh stationery, new teachers and renewed goals. It can also bring uncertainty, heightened emotions and adjustment challenges for many students. From a psychological perspective, transitions are significant developmental moments, even positive change can feel stressful.
Below are some key insights and practical supports to help families navigate this season with confidence and care.
Starting a new year involves multiple layers of change:
New routines and expectations
Shifts in friendships and social groups
Increased academic demands
Changes in teachers or learning environments
For some students, movement into a new year level or campus
Even students who appear confident may experience underlying discomfort, sleep changes, irritability or emotional ups and downs. This is a normal adjustment response as the brain works to process change and establish a sense of safety and predictability.
How families can support adjustment
Normalise Mixed Feelings
Let your child know it’s okay to feel excited and nervous.
You can say: “It makes sense that starting a new year feels a bit big. Lots of kids feel that way.”
Prioritise Predictable Routines
Consistent sleep, morning routines and after-school wind-down time create psychological safety.
Focus on Connection Before Correction
If emotions run high, respond first with empathy rather than problem-solving.
Keep Goodbyes Calm and Confident
Brief, warm and predictable goodbyes support secure separation.
Expect After-School Decompression
Many students “hold it together” all day and release emotions at home. Quiet time, a snack and gentle conversation can help. Also, rather than asking “did you have fun today” or “did something exciting happen” try
“Tell me about the most interesting part of your day”
I’m glad to see you. I’ve been thinking about you today.
“Tell me one thing that felt easy and one thing that felt tricky”
A gentle reminder:
Adjustment takes time. Most students settle within a few weeks as routines solidify and relationships strengthen. Patience, warmth and steady expectations are powerful protective factors.
If you have any concerns about your child’s transition into the new school year, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher (Primary school) or Year Coordinator (Secondary school).
Wishing all our families a calm and confident start to the year.
God bless!
The Salvado Psychology Team