MHIPS - Mental Health in Primary Schools

MENTAL HEALTH, RESILIENCE AND GROWTH MINDSET

Last Friday, whilst on our school Pilgrimage, every student participated in an activity where they learnt more about Mary McKillop and her incredible journey. 

Mary MacKillop was a courageous and compassionate woman who made a lasting impact on Australian society. As the co-founder of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart, she dedicated her life to educating the poor and caring for the most vulnerable, especially in rural communities. She is commemorated as one of our four school founders as our 'red' house is actually named McKillop House.

Despite facing many challenges, including opposition from church authorities, Mary remained strong in her faith and committed to her mission.  In 2010, she became Australia’s first saint, a true role model of kindness, resilience, and unwavering dedication to others.

It was her resilience that shone bright for our students who we are learning the concept of having a 'Growth Mindset'. 

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can develop through effort, learning, and persistence. With a growth mindset, challenges are seen as opportunities to grow, and mistakes are part of the learning process. It encourages resilience, motivation, and a love of learning in both school and life.

Students were then able to connect their new knowledge on Growth Mindset and determine whether certain statements are from someone who had a Growth Mindset or a Fixed Mindset.

The students all engaged with their learning and were incredible at identifying Growth Mindset statements. 

We concluded our sessions with a colouring in activity which resonated the message of resilience and growth mindset - "I grow my brain by learning hard things".

The winners of the competition and listed here as are some examples of the entrants. Well done to all who entered the competition!

Junior school - Xavier 

Middle years - Vinnie and Nicola

Senior years - Chels K and Scarlett D