From the Deputy Principal

Relay for Life

Congratulations to our Year 11 and 12 students who participated in the Cancer Council’s Relay for Life at the Domain Athletic Centre on Saturday 28 March. Over the past four weeks, students have collectively raised approximately $4,000 – an outstanding effort and a testament to their commitment to supporting those affected by cancer. 

A special thank you to the staff who generously volunteered their time to walk alongside the students from 10.00am to 10.00pm. 

Relay for Life provides an important opportunity to celebrate cancer survivors, honour loved ones lost and raise vital funds towards cancer research and support services. 

A highlight of the day was the moving Candlelight Ceremony of Hope, during which participants reflected on the impact of cancer within the community. Our students demonstrated what it truly means to be active, compassionate members of society: looking outward, serving others and contributing in meaningful ways. 

See some highlights from the event in the photos below. 

My Mind Check | Term 2

At St Mary’s College, we are continually seeking new ways to strengthen student wellbeing. In Term 2, we will be introducing My Mind Check, a proactive and evidence‑based wellbeing tool designed specifically for Australian schools. Developed by youth mental health experts at Macquarie University and funded by the Australian Government, this online tool supports early identification of student wellbeing needs.

Through short, 10–15-minute check‑ins, designated staff gain insight into students’ mental health and wellbeing. 

My Mind Check also provides targeted resources to help teachers and families offer appropriate, timely support. The tool integrates seamlessly with the College’s existing wellbeing framework, offering a simple yet powerful way to enhance student care.

My Mind Check is available for students from Prep to Year 12. Early next term, parents and carers will receive an opt-in consent letter outlining participation details. Students maintain full agency during the process and may skip questions or choose not to participate at any time. 

Each month, during Pillars lessons, students will complete an age‑appropriate online check‑in featuring multiple‑choice questions about their wellbeing. Designated staff will review responses through a secure dashboard. For students who may be vulnerable or showing early signs of difficulty, the platform recommends follow‑up actions and provides useful resources. Schools can then share relevant information with families, helping foster supportive conversations and ensuring students are connected with appropriate support networks.

The check‑ins assess key mental health areas such as anxiety, attention and activity, mood and protective factors including family connection, school belonging and peer acceptance. Optional areas include body image concerns, eating difficulties and peer victimisation. Content is tailored to each age group, with simplified formats for younger students.

By introducing My Mind Check, we are reaffirming our commitment to proactive, preventative and student‑centred wellbeing initiatives – ensuring every child feels seen, supported and valued within a caring school community.

More information about My Mind Check will be shared with parents and carers early next term. In the meantime, we encourage you to visit the website here for further details: https://mymindcheck.org.au/about/