Wellbeing

I take this opportunity to wish all students a relaxing holiday break after what has been a busy Term 2. Moving around the College in the last week, I have observed how many students have been ‘under the weather’ but have made the effort to engage in both their schoolwork and co-curricular activities. 

I wish to pass on my thanks to the students who participated in the Relationships, Support and Bullying Survey last week. There were over 1,200 participants, ensuring that the Wellbeing Team has a good range of data to review in relation to supporting students and focusing on initiatives. Further feedback will be published in future editions of the Especean.

Students are encouraged to spend time with family and friends, undertaking activities that will help refresh them for Term 3. Importantly, having good sleep patterns and diet will help to recover from lingering illnesses. Be mindful of the amount of time in front of screens and social media. Taking on board feedback from the recent parent/teacher interviews, students are encouraged to reflect on the goals that were set for Semester 1 and start planning for the goals that will help them achieve their aspirations in Semester 2.

It will be an opportune time to have uniforms and shoes cleaned. Students need to ensure that they return with appropriate hairstyles, referring to the expectations in the College Diary, prior to having a haircut.

Term 3 will see students be given the opportunity to nominate for leadership roles within their cohort. Details for the nomination processes for Year Ambassador and Student Leadership roles have either been explained or will be outlined at upcoming Pastoral Care Periods.

Robert Simpson

Director of Wellbeing

Brainstorm Production 'The Hurting Game'

Yesterday, Year 7 was very fortunate to experience one of Brainstorm Production’s inspiring performances. This production was called ‘The Hurting Game’. It tells the story of two children battling through all the challenges friendship offers. Everyone has experienced some challenges in their friendships, whether it is bullying or peer pressure. In the performance one boy and one girl act out different stages in their lives from various years at school. They look back on some of their younger years as they gradually progress towards the present, while looking at ways to solve the problems they face.

The performance showed the effects of bullying and peer pressure on everyday friendships. It taught us about different types of bullying and about our identity online. It also highlighted that our actions have impacts and consequences. The production taught us about how deeply impacted people become  from rumours and negative comments or bullying.  It touched on our body image on social media and how others may seem perfect but they are going through the same thing as you. People’s lives may seem perfect but in the end everyone struggles.

Gabriel Stanton

Year 7 Student