Wellbeing Supports Update

SchoolTV

Each week we will be sharing resources from SchoolTV in line with what is happening in our school environment. 

In this edition of SchoolTV - SPECIAL REPORT - Having the Alcohol Discussion

Talking to your teenager about alcohol consumption and the potential dangers associated with it can be tricky and overwhelming. However, no matter how difficult this conversation may be, it is an important one to have in order to ensure the safety of our young people.

The legal drinking age in all Australian states and territories is 18 years, however this does not deter some adolescents from experimenting with alcohol. Health experts say that young people are at greater risk of alcohol-related harm than adults as it increases the risk of damage to their developing brain. It is a substance that affects their body, behaviour and decision-making abilities, highlighting the importance of preventing or limiting your teenager's alcohol use.

End of school and the impending festive season may be a cause for celebration for many teenagers ready to party and wanting to put this year behind them. However, the impact of the pandemic has experts concerned that these celebrations may involve excessive alcohol consumption and result in risky behaviour. Parent and carers can help minimise these risks by influencing sensible drinking habits. It is important to outline the rules and boundaries around age-appropriate alcohol consumption and what the legal implications may be. Although many teenagers are fully aware of the dangers, they put more value on the reward than adults.

Start the conversation today. Parents and carers need to educate their children on when, where and how to drink responsibly.

If you require further guidance or information, contact the Alcohol and Drug Foundation Helpline on 1300 85 85 84 for free confidential support.

Here is the link to this week's topic: https://mcsc.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-having-alcohol-discussion-au 

The Mordialloc College Difference     

Working Together for Student success

At Mordialloc College, we believe students achieve their best when families, students, and the school, work together in a supportive and consistent way. Our approach to wellbeing is built around strong relationships, shared understanding, and clear communication.

We use a collaborative model called the “Triangle of Engagement,” which places the student at the centre of a partnership between home and school. This approach helps ensure students feel supported both academically and emotionally, while also encouraging them to take increasing responsibility for their own growth and progress.

Every student’s needs are different, so support plans are tailored to the individual. Together, families, staff, and students identify clear goals and agree on practical strategies that will help the student succeed. These goals may relate to learning, attendance, emotional wellbeing, confidence, behaviour, or social connection.

An important part of this process is helping students develop a sense of ownership. Students are encouraged to reflect on their progress, communicate openly, and recognise the important role they play in achieving positive outcomes. At the same time, the school provides guidance, structure, and ongoing support, while families help reinforce routines, encouragement, and consistency at home.

What makes this approach effective is the shared commitment between everyone involved. Regular check-ins allow progress to be reviewed, successes celebrated, and strategies adjusted if needed. This ensures support remains flexible and responsive as students grow and their needs change.

Beyond immediate goals, this model also helps students build important lifelong skills such as resilience, accountability, confidence, and self-awareness. By working together in a respectful and collaborative way, students learn they are supported, capable, and not expected to navigate challenges alone.

At Mordialloc College, we value the importance of strong partnerships with families and recognise that meaningful progress happens when students feel connected, understood, and supported by the people around them.