Student and Staff Wellbeing
Canine Comprehension
Canine Comprehension has been a HUGE success this year!
Students in the primary sub-school have had weekly visits from George the Spoodle and his human Judy. Students had the opportunity to learn skills including how to approach pets and care for a dog. Students took turns to pet George, which helped to build upon their ability to communicate their needs by asking to give him treats and water or throw the ball.
The middle and secondary sub-schools had selected students participate in 8 week programs focusing on developing positive relationships, positive communication skills and building on their emotional literacy. These programs were run with Norma the Greyhound and her human Lynn.
JSA's partnership with George & Judy and Norma & Lynn from Canine Comprehension have provided students the opportunity thrive in their learning environment.
The Wellbeing team look forward to continuing the Canine Comprehension program in 2024.
School Holiday Programs
The last day of Term 4 is Wendesday 20th December. After this date, students will be on school holidays until we return on Tuesday 30th January 2024.
The Merribek region has holiday programs that commence on Monday 8th January and run weekdays until Thursday 25th January.
The Merribek primary school holiday programs are run in Brunswick East and Brunswick South West Primary Schools. To view their programs and more information, see the links below:
The Hume Libraries have relseased their calendar with some activities completed within the Hume region. See the link below for more information:
Support Services
Food Relief
We understand that the increased cost of living has had a large impact on the community. There are lots of people who are now finding it challenging and are struggling to afford some of the basic essentials.
If you or someone you know if having a tough time, there are supports available!
Foodbank Victoria
The Foodbank Victoria website provides the option to find food relief services across the state of Victoria for those who may need it.
For more information, click on the link below.
Kids Helpline is a 24/7 free counselling service available by phone call, online chat or email available specifically for children from 5 – 25 years old.
You can call 1800 55 1800 or click the link below the access the website and click on the 'Get Help' tab for more information.
The Circle
Designed for ‘Neurodivergence’, 'My Circle' by Kids Helpline allows 12 – 25 year olds talk about their experiences around Autism, ADHD, sensory issues and more. Supported by Kids Helpline counsellors, the free, private, safe and confidential social platform allows 12 – 25 year olds talk to other young people going through challenges similar to them.
Click the link below for more information about 'My Circle'.
Their free telephone and online counselling service is open 24/7 for everyone in Australia. No matter who you are, or how you're feeling, reach out to their free counselling services for support and they'll point you in the right direction so you can get the help you need.
You can call 1300 224 636 for support or click the link below to access the Beyond Blue website and click on the 'get support' tab for information.
Not sure what support you need? Click the link below and complete the 'Mental Health check-in' survey.