Wellbeing

Wellbeing Structure 2025 -

Leesa Ross is our Disability Inclusion / Mental Health Wellbeing Leader. She works Monday- Thursday. 

Bernie is our counsellor and is available for student & parent sessions on Wednesdays.

Bridget Ross is our Wellbeing Support Officer and works Wednesdays and Fridays. 

Jessica Blackman is also available at times on Mondays and Fridays for Wellbeing support

Breakfast Club

This will begin again next week and will continue to run in the BER every MONDAY and THURSDAY morning from 8.30 am – 8.50 am.

One key initiative that has made a significant impact on both student wellbeing and learning outcomes at Rochester Primary is the implementation of the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM).

What is the Berry Street Education Model?

The Berry Street Education Model is a comprehensive approach to teaching and learning that focuses on supporting the whole child—emotionally, socially, and academically. It’s a framework designed to help students build resilience and improve engagement.

The Five Key Areas of Focus

The Berry Street model is built around five key areas. These areas guide both teaching strategies and classroom practices to ensure that students are not only learning academically but also developing the skills necessary to thrive emotionally and socially:

1. Body – This domain emphasizes the importance of physical regulation. It teaches students how to manage stress and emotional triggers, which can improve concentration and reduce classroom disruptions.
2. Relationships – Building strong, positive relationships between students and staff is at the heart of the Berry Street approach. By fostering a culture of respect and trust, students feel safer and more supported, which in turn boosts their confidence and learning.
3. Engagement – Engaging students in their learning is crucial for their success. The Berry Street model encourages teachers to create interactive, relevant, and purposeful lessons that captivate students' interests and motivate them to participate actively.
4. Learning – This domain focuses on helping students develop a growth mindset and the skills necessary for academic success. It includes strategies for differentiated learning and promoting resilience in the face of challenges.
5. Emotions – Understanding and managing emotions is key to student wellbeing. By helping students recognize and regulate their emotions, they are better equipped to handle challenges both inside and outside the classroom.

How Are We Implementing BSEM in Our School?

Our school has been integrating the Berry Street Education Model into our teaching practices over the past year, and we’re already seeing positive changes. From mindful breathing exercises to fostering collaborative learning experiences, these practices help students stay calm, focused, and ready to learn.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to implement and refine the Berry Street Education Model in our school, we are committed to creating an environment where every student can thrive—emotionally, socially, and academically. By focusing on building relationships, emotional regulation, and engagement, we are helping our students grow into confident, resilient individuals prepared for whatever comes their way.

We look forward to sharing more of our progress with you as we journey forward with this important initiative!