Student Wellbeing

A Safe and Smooth Start to Term 4

As Term 3 draws to a close, students, families, and staff are looking forward to a well-earned holiday break. The holidays are a time to recharge, connect, and enjoy some freedom from school routines. They also provide an opportunity to set up for a safe and successful return to school in Term 4—the final and often busiest stretch of the year.

Balancing Rest, Fun, and Safety Over the Break

The most positive holiday periods are those that combine downtime with safe, active, and engaging experiences:

• Rest and recharge: Encourage students to catch up on sleep, enjoy quiet time, and take a break from busy schedules.
• Stay active: Sport, walks, bike rides, creative projects, or time outdoors help maintain physical and emotional wellbeing.
• Safety first: Remind young people to make safe choices online, when travelling, and when spending time with friends. Clear boundaries and expectations give them the confidence to enjoy themselves responsibly.

Preparing for a Smooth Return to School

Moving from “holiday mode” back to the classroom can be a challenge. Families can make the transition smoother with a few simple steps:

• Reset routines: Start encouraging earlier bedtimes and school-day wake-ups in the last few days of the break.
• Organise essentials: Prepare uniforms, school bags, devices, and stationery ahead of time.
• Support emotional readiness: Talk about how your child is feeling about the return to school. Whether they’re excited, nervous, or reluctant, acknowledging their emotions helps them feel understood.
• Promote connections: Encourage a catch-up with a friend before school starts to ease the social transition.

Tips for Parents and Carers

• Check school communication: Review Compass updates, newsletters, and emails for Term 4 events and reminders.
• Foster independence: Support your child to plan their time, manage homework, and set realistic goals for Term 4.
• Encourage a growth mindset: Remind students that Term 4 is a fresh opportunity to build on achievements and finish the year strong.

Looking Ahead to Term 4

The last term of the year is often filled with exciting milestones—final projects, performances, sports, and celebrations. By balancing rest and fun with safety and preparation, families can help young people step into Term 4 with confidence, focus, and energy to finish the year positively.

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