Student Wellbeing
BIG NEWS - ST JOHN'S R U OK? Barbara Hocking Memorial Award Finalist for 2025
We are thrilled to announce that St John’s has been selected as one of three national finalists in the Education Category of the R U OK? Barbara Hocking Memorial Awards for 2025!
These prestigious awards recognise schools, workplaces, and community groups across Australia who demonstrate a strong and genuine commitment to mental health and wellbeing. Named in honour of Barbara Hocking, a passionate mental health advocate and founding member of R U OK?, the awards celebrate those who create environments where people feel safe, supported and connected.
At St John’s, wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. From classroom practices to whole-school initiatives, we work hard to build a culture where every student feels seen, heard and valued. Being recognised at a national level is a testament to the dedication of our staff, students and families who make wellbeing a shared priority in our community.
The winners will be announced in a few weeks, but for now, we celebrate this incredible achievement and thank everyone who has contributed to making St John’s such a compassionate and connected place to learn and grow.
Let’s keep asking, listening and supporting one another because at St John’s, R U OK? is more than a question; it’s a culture.
Seasons for Growth
We’re pleased to share that our Seasons for Growth program has now commenced for Term 3, facilitated by Mrs Amanda Hill. Amanda is working with two small groups of students from Years 3–6 each week, providing a safe and supportive space to explore topics around change, loss and resilience.
We look forward to seeing the growth and connection that comes from this valuable wellbeing initiative as the term progresses.
The Brave Program
This week, we are also excited to begin the BRAVE Program with a group of self-nominated Year 5/6 students at St John’s. BRAVE is an evidence-based online program developed by researchers at the University of Queensland and endorsed by Beyond Blue. It is designed to support children in understanding and managing anxiety and worry using practical strategies grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
The program will run once a week for 30–45 minutes and will be facilitated by myself, Tracey Farrar.
It includes interactive online activities alongside small group discussions, allowing students to reflect, share and apply their learning in a supportive environment.
BRAVE empowers young people to recognise anxious thoughts, develop helpful thinking patterns and build resilience. By learning these lifelong skills in a safe and guided space, students are better equipped to manage challenges with confidence and calm.
We are proud to offer this program as part of our whole-school commitment to student wellbeing. Thank you to our Year 5/6 families for your support and partnership as we continue to nurture the emotional health and growth of every learner at St John’s.
National Week of Action Against Bullying
Next week at St John’s will see our students participating in the National Week of Action Against Bullying. Every class will be participating in a livestream with Kids Helpline, for the Largest Anti-Bullying Lesson for Primary Schools, on Monday 11 August from 1.00 - 1.20pm.
Superhero Monday
To commence the week and celebrate all of our learning that will follow, on Monday (11th August) we are inviting all students to come dressed up as their favourite superhero to take a stand against bullying.
We invite every member of our school community to join us in this important cause. By working together, we can create a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered. Let's stand strong against bullying and build a brighter, more compassionate future for all at St John’s.
Wellbeing at St John's
Wellbeing continues to be a busy and fulfilling space at St John’s, with a strong focus on nurturing the emotional, social and mental health of all our students. Programs such as Seasons for Growth, BRAVE, The Resilience Project and our whole-school Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) framework work together to help students build confidence, emotional literacy and strong interpersonal skills.
At the heart of our wellbeing work is the everyday philosophy of R U OK? checking in, showing care and creating a culture where students feel seen, heard and supported.
These layered approaches reflect our deep commitment to fostering a connected, compassionate school community where wellbeing is prioritised alongside academic learning.
If you ever have any questions, concerns, or would like support for your child in this space, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help.
Tracey Farrar
Wellbeing Leader tfarrar@sjmitcham.catholic.edu.au