Connect & Why it matters!
As students move through secondary school, one of the most important foundations for their learning, wellbeing and future success is connection. At The Gap State High School, Connect is our structured wellbeing and engagement program designed to support students at every stage of their journey.
At times, students may say that they do not always enjoy Connect or question its relevance. This is not unusual, particularly for adolescents who are developing independence and a desire for autonomy. What is important to understand is that, even when students are reluctant, the skills, habits and reflections developed through Connect continue to have a meaningful and lasting impact.
Connect is not about telling students what to think or feel. It is about giving them thetime, language and tools to better understand themselves, their emotions and their relationships with others.
Through Connect, students are supported to:
- build resilience and healthy habits
- develop emotional awareness and regulation
- strengthen relationships and a sense of belonging
- reflect on choices, goals and personal growth
feel seen, supported and understood
Builds student wellbeing, resilience, emotional literacy, hope, and relationships.
These are skills that do not always show immediate results, but they quietly shape how young people respond to challenges, connect with others and manage the demands of school and life.
Connect core domains:
•Weekly dedicated time fostering consistent student-teacher connections.
•Delivered by regular classroom teachers to ensure continuity and care.
•Promotes a sense of belonging and support through trusted adult relationships.
•Structured yet flexible to meet the developmental needs of each year level.
•Empowers students with life skills, purpose, and self-awareness beyond academics.
Themes of Connect
Connect is intentionally designed to evolve as students move through the school. From building friendships and a growth mindset in the early years, to developing independence, leadership and future focus in the senior years, the program reflects the changing needs of adolescents.
While students may not always recognise the value in the moment, research and experience consistently show that structured wellbeing programs support:
- improved emotional regulation and confidence
- stronger peer and adult relationships
- increased engagement and attendance
- better readiness for learning
- a stronger sense of purpose and identity
Often, it is only later that students recognise how these experiences helped them navigate friendships, stress, decision-making and transitions.
As part of GEM in Action, The Resilience Project (TRP) supports students to build resilience, emotional awareness and positive mental health through the practices of Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness.
Through TRP, students learn practical strategies to recognise their emotions, manage challenges and develop perspective. These skills support calm decision-making, stronger relationships and a greater sense of wellbeing, both at school and beyond.
TRP provides students with tools they can use every day to navigate stress, build connection and care for themselves and others.
Home and School, Working Together
We know that wellbeing is strongest when young people experience consistent care, messages and expectations across home and school. Families play a vital role in reinforcing the skills and language developed through Connect by creating space for reflection, open conversation and healthy routines at home.
Often, the learning that happens in Connect is quiet and subtle. It shows up in how students manage emotions, navigate friendships, respond to challenges and advocate for themselves. These are skills that take time to develop and are strengthened through repeated practice and support from the trusted adults in a young person’s life.
By supporting Connect, families are helping students build foundations that extend well beyond the classroom. These skills support learning, relationships, resilience and confidence, and prepare young people for life beyond school.
A Quiet but Powerful Investment
At The Gap State High School, Connect reflects our belief in Learners Who Flourish. While students may not always recognise its value in the moment, the opportunities to pause, reflect, connect and grow play an important role in shaping their wellbeing, identity and sense of belonging.
Even when learning feels uncomfortable or is met with resistance, Connect remains a powerful investment in students’ long-term growth and success.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust as we work together to support the wellbeing, connection and flourishing of every student.