Wellbeing & Culture
Welcome back to School! I hope everyone enjoyed a restful, fun-filled holiday break. Returning to the school routine can stir up a mix of excitement and nerves—for students, parents, and teachers alike. As we settle back in, nurturing our wellbeing is especially important.
Below are some thoughts, suggestions and reminders to support a positive start to the term, both at school and at home.
Why Wellbeing Matters Especially Now
Switching from holiday mode to school mode can create emotional “bumps” — fatigue, worries about social connection, anxiety about school work, or simply adjusting to earlier bedtimes and morning routines. These are normal.
When children feel emotionally supported and connected, they tend to:
- Engage more readily in learning
- Be kinder to peers
- Recover more quickly from ups and downs
- Build healthy habits for life
By intentionally weaving wellbeing into our daily routines, we help make the transition smoother.
Simple Wellbeing Strategies to Try Together
Here are a few practical ideas you and your family might adopt in the first weeks of term:
| Strategy | Why It Helps | How to Try It |
| “Check‑in chats” | Gives children space to voice concerns | Ask questions like “What’s one thing you’re looking forward to? One thing you’re a bit worried about?” |
| Consistent bedtime & wakeup routines | Supports better energy, mood, focus | Gradually ease back into school sleep patterns |
| Movement breaks | Physical activity reduces stress and boosts mood | A quick walk, dance, or stretch breaks during afternoons |
| Gratitude or “rose-thorn” moment | Helps shift focus to positives | At dinner or before bed: share one “rose” (good thing) and one “thorn” (challenge) of the day |
| Modelling emotional openness | Teaches children it’s safe to feel and talk | “I felt tired today when I came home; I’m going to take a short walk to recharge.” |
| Connect with school community | Strengthens a sense of belonging | Attend the next school event, volunteer, or encourage playdates with classmates |
Tips for Parents & Caregivers
- Be gentle with expectations. The first few weeks may feel uneven—some days will be great, some more challenging.
- Encourage open dialogue. When children talk, listen without immediately jumping to fix. Sometimes they simply need to feel heard.
- Look for small wins. Celebrate making new friends, managing frustration, or getting through tough tasks.
- Take care of yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritise a few minutes each day for something you enjoy—reading, walking, chatting with a friend.
- Stay connected. Share with other parents, lean on your support network, ask for help when you need it.
Kelly Goodgame and Hayley Nixon – On behalf of the Wellbeing and Culture Team