Ulverstone Campus Head of Secondary  

This year at Leighland Christian School, we have embarked on establishing a dedicated Student Wellbeing Space. This space is known as ‘The Well’ and is a place for Secondary students to use when in need of social/emotional support. 

The Well has counsellors and support staff, but is also a point of contact for outside agencies. 

The Wellbeing Space is located next to the Learning Support HUB and we work together to support students and cater for their individual needs. We have information and strategies to help students regulate and work on wellbeing goals. Our Wellbeing Space is a calm and welcoming place for students, and a fantastic addition to our school.

Every Friday, we also have a dedicated lesson from 9.00am to 9.50am for all Year 7 to 10 students called Connect. Belonging is a major protective factor for mental health and as such, we value the opportunity to connect and create opportunities for belonging amongst staff and students. 

Students have explored ideas around empathy in conjunction with Harmony Week and Reconciliation Week, as well as concepts of respect and responsibility. The Connect lesson allows students to understand and appreciate the way God has made us all to be individually unique, but also a time to share goals, interests and have positive human interaction. 

The Connect lesson also serves as a time to have regular Secondary Assemblies and to celebrate our achievements. Each year level is hosting the assembly with the most popular item being the “Guess the Teacher” segment, made up of quotes, experiences and anecdotes of our staff, which the students have fun guessing! 

This gathering is also an important opportunity for students to practice leadership and communication skills as they introduce various guests, pastors and speakers. 

The Connect Assembly is integral to building our school community on the Lordship of Jesus Christ as we pray and worship together. 

Bettina Townsend

Head of Secondary