Assistant Principal -

Wellbeing

A Decade of Gratitude at O’Connor Catholic College

As I prepare to conclude my time at O’Connor Catholic College, I have been reflecting on what has been an incredibly meaningful decade. Schools are much more than buildings and classrooms; they are communities built on relationships, shared purpose and a deep commitment to young people. It has been a privilege to be part of such a vibrant and caring community here at O’Connor.

I first joined the College more than ten years ago as the Learning Support Coordinator. From the beginning, I was inspired by the dedication of staff and the resilience and potential of our students. My early work focused on supporting students with diverse learning needs and ensuring that every student had the opportunity to access learning in ways that enabled them to succeed. One initiative I am particularly proud of from that time was the development of the Learning Hub, which created a more structured and supportive environment for students requiring additional assistance. This space has enabled many students to build confidence, develop independence and experience success in their learning.

A significant part of this work involved collaborating with an incredibly committed team of Education Assistants, whose dedication to supporting students each day makes a profound difference in the classroom and beyond. I was also privileged to work closely with our Aboriginal Education Assistants, strengthening the support offered to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families. Together we worked to ensure that students felt welcomed, respected and supported within the life of the College. These partnerships reinforced for me the importance of listening carefully to students and families so that individual needs are understood and reflected within teaching and learning programs.

Over time, my role at the College evolved as I followed my strong passion for student wellbeing and pastoral care. Moving into leadership in Academic Pastoral Care and Wellbeing allowed me to work more broadly with students, staff and families to support the whole child — academically, socially and emotionally. One of the most significant pieces of work during this period was supporting the transition of the College’s pastoral structure to the House system. This change was driven by a desire to strengthen student belonging, connection and identity within the school community. It has been wonderful to see students take pride in their houses and participate enthusiastically in the many cultural, sporting and community events that have followed.

Throughout my time at O’Connor I have been fortunate to work alongside talented and deeply committed staff. Their commitment to both learning and student wellbeing continues to inspire me. Together, we have worked to build a culture where students feel known, supported and challenged to grow into the best versions of themselves.

One of the greatest privileges of my role has been building strong relationships with students and families. Schools work best when there is trust and partnership between home and school, and I am grateful for the many conversations, collaborations and shared successes I have experienced with families over the years. Watching students grow from Year 7 into confident young adults ready to take their place in the world is one of the most rewarding aspects of working in education.

As I now move on to the next chapter of my professional journey, I do so with a deep sense of gratitude. O’Connor Catholic College has been an important part of my life for the past decade, and I will always carry with me the memories, relationships and experiences I have gained here.

To the staff, students and families of O’Connor: thank you for the support, encouragement and kindness you have shown me. It has been an honour to serve this community.

I wish the College every success in the years ahead and look forward to hearing about the continued achievements of the O’Connor community.

With sincere thanks and best wishes for the future.

With regards,

Mellissa Bell

Assistant Principal Wellbeing

Mental Health Support at OCC

Here at O’Connor we are lucky to have a huge support system in place for students who may be experiencing struggling with their mental health. The School Counsellors  provide comprehensive support to young people, typically focusing on developing practical skills to manage emotions and improve daily functioning. Counselling is safe and confidential.

Areas of support include help in the following areas:

Mental Health & Emotional Regulation

• Anxiety and Stress Management: Helping students manage "overthinking," panic symptoms, exam anxiety, and the physical signs of stress like headaches or stomach aches.
• Mood Support: Addressing persistent sadness, low motivation, and withdrawal associated with depression.
• Emotional Regulation: Teaching tools to handle intense emotions like anger, frustration, or overwhelm through calming strategies and "using words" to express needs.

• Self-Esteem & Identity: Supporting young people with self-worth, body image, and navigating gender or sexual identity. 

   

Social & Relationship Support

• Peer Dynamics: Providing strategies for navigating bullying (including cyberbullying), peer pressure, and difficulties making or keeping friends.
• Family Conflict: Facilitating better communication between parents and teens, particularly during family breakdowns or separations.
• Social Skills: Building confidence in social settings through role-playing and practical interpersonal skill development. 
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Academic & School-Related Support

• "School Can't" / School Refusal: Investigating the root causes of school avoidance and creating plans for a gradual return to the classroom.
• Learning Barriers: Identifying underlying issues like ADHD, Autism, or specific learning disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia) to implement classroom accommodations.
• Study & Goal Setting: Assisting with time management, effective study habits, and career guidance for senior students. 

Safety & Risk Management

• Crisis Intervention: Offering immediate support for traumatic events, grief, and loss.
• High-Risk Behaviours: Addressing self-harm, suicidal ideation, and substance use through early intervention and safety planning.

If you students or families would like more information about seeking support please reach out to your House Leader, they will be happy to assist in any way they can.

Mrs Felicity Magann

Leader of Learning - Wellbeing