Wellbeing & Inclusion 

at Willy

Welcome back to our Willy Kids and Families

It was fantastic walking around the yard last Wednesday morning to all our excited Willy Kids. Excited to see their friends and new teacher and excited to make connections with  new classmates. 

For many of our students the start of the school year is a time of excitement, whilst for others it can present some challenges or feelings of anxiety. We understand that changes to routine, settling in with a new teacher and classmates and even a change in classroom location within the school can all cause students to feel a little unsettled or reluctant.

Our program here at Williamstown Primary recognises this, even for students who appear unconcerned. Classroom teachers devote significant time at the beginning of the year getting to know their students, building relationships, and collaborating on agreed classroom behaviours and expectations. Developing relationships and understanding our students is the foundation from which we build upon throughout the year to tap into interests, strengths and learning preferences.

At home, there are several things you can do to support your child if they have feelings of uncertainty or anxiety about school:

• Listen to their worries or concerns 
• Assist them in managing their anxiety, helping them to acknowledge it and move through it
• Encourage positive school conversations
• Be organised with uniforms, books, homework
• Develop routines and agreements about after school activities and events
• Create familiar routines – morning, bedtimes, and meals 

The upcoming Meet the Teacher conferences, taking place on Wednesday 12th February, provides another opportunity for you to share information and discuss the specific needs, strengths and interests of your child. 

The 2025 Wellbeing Team consists of Lisa Leydin (Assistant Principal), Anna Swan (Disability and Inclusion & Mental Health and Wellbeing) and Bern Tripodi (Expressive Arts Therapist). If your child continues to experience difficulties settling into the school routines beyond the first few weeks, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s classroom teacher or the Wellbeing Team. We are all here to support you and your child. 

Kind regards,

Lisa Leydin                                                                 Anna Swan

Assistant Principal                                                   Learning Specialist

Disability, Inclusion & Wellbeing                        Disability and Inclusion & Mental Health and                                                                                       Wellbeing (Mon-Thur)