Wellbeing

Yr 6 Wellbeing Unit - Preparing for High School

This term, our Year 6 students have been engaging in a Wellbeing Unit designed to support their transition to high school. The program helps students reflect on their experiences, explore feelings about moving schools, and develop practical skills for managing the change.

Some of the Highlights include:

• Exploring Excitement and Worries: Students discussed what excites them about high school and shared strategies to address any concerns.
• Time Management and Organisation: Activities like creating timetables, practicing locker organisation, mastering the use of combination locks, and preparing for multiple teachers and classrooms helped build independence and confidence.
• Adjusting to New Routines: Students practiced transitioning between classes, managing books, and navigating the increased expectations of high school, including homework responsibilities.
• Navigating New Experiences: They learned how to make new friends and embrace opportunities like clubs and electives.
• Travel Skills: Students explored safe ways to use public transport, including reading timetables and handling Myki cards.
• Wellbeing Plans: They developed personalised plans to manage stress and remain positive by embracing the school values of Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility.

The purpose of this program is to ensure students feel confident and well prepared for the exciting challenges of high school. 

Wellbeing Spotlight: A Tribute to Mrs Crowley

This year marks the end of an extraordinary chapter at St Mary’s as we prepare to farewell the incomparable Mrs Dot Crowley, who will be retiring at the conclusion of this year after 30 years of incredible service. You may wonder why this tribute is in the Wellbeing section of our newsletter…..Well, it’s because Dot is Wellbeing. For three decades, she has been the heart and soul of our staff and student community, a constant source of strength, wisdom, and support.

Dot is more than a teacher; she is our rock, our friend, and our greatest cheerleader. It’s impossible to capture everything she’s given us, but here are just a few of the countless ways she’s changed our lives:

1. A Listening Ear Like No Other: Whether it’s a quick stop by her room or a deep chat, Dot makes you feel heard. She listens with such care and genuine interest that you always leave feeling lighter and more hopeful.
2. The Great Healer: No matter how tough your day has been, a visit to Dot's room feels like a reset. She has this magical ability to help you let go of stress, laugh, and walk away ready to face whatever comes next.
3. The Queen of Laughter: Her humour is legendary. Dot can find a way to make anyone smile—even when it feels impossible. Her wit and warmth remind us all to focus on the joy in every day.
4. An Inspiring Mentor: To me and so many others, Dot has been a guiding light. Her wisdom, encouragement, and example have helped us grow, both personally and professionally. She shows us what it means to lead with love and to care deeply for others.
5. A True Champion of Wellbeing: Dot has been the backbone of our community's wellbeing. She makes every person feel valued, seen, and appreciated. She has created a legacy of care and compassion that will continue to ripple through St Mary’s long after she retires.
6. A Woman of Glitter and Grace: I’ll never forget the cheerful sound of Dot’s high heels clicking down the hall, her presence as bright and welcoming as her signature smile. Always dressed to impress in her beautiful lace outfits and sparkling jewellery, she brings a touch of glamour to every day.  Dot is rarely without her trusty cup of tea in hand (and yes, sometimes spilling a bit….okay, maybe a lot, and often balancing three cups at once!), but it’s her warmth and genuine nature that truly shine through. She greets everyone she passes with heartfelt care and grace, making you feel seen, valued, and instantly brighter. 

Personally, Dot has changed my life in less than six months. She has made me a better leader simply by being herself, showing what it means to listen, to care, and to lead with heart. I already know I’ll be calling her often for advice, guidance, or just a chat to hear her reassuring voice reminding me that everything will be okay and to just ‘Stay in my Lane!’ with laughter shortly to follow.

Dot, you have been the glue that holds us together, the light that brightens our day, and the person who makes us laugh until we forget why we were stressed in the first place.

From the bottom of our heart, thank you for supporting the staff anf families of St Mary’s . It won’t be the same without you. Your love, wisdom, and kindness will always remain a part of this community.

Cheers to you, Dot! You deserve every bit of joy and relaxation in your retirement. You will be so dearly missed but never forgotten.

Warm regards,

Daniela Day

Head of Wellbeing & Inclusion