Student Wellbeing 

Student Wellbeing

Lunchtime Clubs.

Our Lunchtime Clubs are in full swing and this term’s line-up is bigger and better than ever! These clubs offer students a chance to connect with others who share similar interests, develop new skills, and enjoy a positive, inclusive space during the day.

This term, we’ve welcomed some exciting new additions to our timetable:

• Storytelling Club – where imagination and creativity take centre stage.

• Cartoon Drawing Club – perfect for budding artists.

• UNO Club – a fun and social card challenge.

• Mario Kart Club – back by popular demand for some high-speed fun!

Do you love comics, colouring in and drawing? On Thursday at lunch in the Library, Cathy and Michelle, are holding a club to hang out with friends and draw. We are especially lucky to have budding illustrators and comic book writers Ethan and Kwame from grade 6 who love making comics about themselves.  Why not come and join other primary students who love drawing too?  Here are Ethan and Kwame with a few others showing off their great work.

Lunchtime Clubs not only provide entertainment and engagement, but they also foster social skills, build confidence, and give students a sense of belonging. 

Peer Mentoring – A Program of Success

Last term, we concluded our Peer Mentoring program with fantastic results. Students from Years 8 and 5 built supportive connections, developed leadership skills, and created a stronger sense of community. We celebrated their achievements together, recognising the positive impact this program has had on both mentors and mentees.

Peer Mentoring doesn’t finish here though - It will continue right through until our Year 9s graduate at the end of 2026, giving students the opportunity to keep the connections that have built, support, and inspire one another.

Reflection on Wellbeing Programs

Throughout Week 3, the Wellbeing Team has had the pleasure of having a Naman, a Year 10 student, joining Brookside as he completes his work experience. As part of his time with the team, Naman had the opportunity to observe various programs and lunchtime clubs and has written a reflection on his experience with the Inspiring Girls and Raise Youth Mentoring programs.

This week marked the second session of the Inspiring Girls program at the school, facilitated by two passionate representatives from the organisation. As part of a five-week initiative running every Tuesday, the program aims to broaden young girls’ horizons by exposing them to female role models and empowering messages. While I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect going in, it was clear from the atmosphere and engagement that the session had a positive impact on the students. It provided a safe, open space where they could express themselves, ask questions, and feel supported in their aspirations.

Alongside this, I also observed the Raise Youth Mentoring program, a 20-week mentoring initiative powered by Raise Mentors. This program stood out to me due to its focus on long-term, one-on-one engagement between mentors and students. The consistency of weekly meetings helps build mutual trust, allowing genuine connections to form. Through various activities and conversations, students receive not only emotional support but also guidance and encouragement from adults outside their usual circles.

Both programs reflect a strong commitment to student wellbeing and personal development. They offer invaluable opportunities for young people to feel heard, inspired, and empowered, which is something I believe is crucial in any educational environment.