School Life & Wellbeing

Welcome Back

Welcome back to all members of our College community following the mid-year break. As we settle into Term 3, Warragul’s winter has certainly arrived, bringing much-needed rain and some chilly mornings. It’s also a timely reminder of our uniform expectations for this time of year.

College Winter Uniform

Our College uniform plays a vital role in promoting a strong sense of belonging, supporting student safety, and presenting a positive, recognisable presence in the wider community. The way students wear their uniform reflects directly on the College, and we expect all students to do so with pride.

The Student Uniform Policy outlines clear expectations and takes precedence over individual preferences. Items such as excess jewellery will be confiscated, and students not meeting uniform expectations may receive a lunchtime or after-school reconnection.

We encourage families to help reinforce these expectations by engaging in regular conversations about personal presentation and supporting students to wear the correct uniform each day. These small efforts make a big difference.

Important Reminders:

• Only the grey rain jacket is permitted in Terms 2 and 3.
• The green rain jacket has not been part of the College uniform since Term 4, 2023, and is no longer permitted.
• Either the Blazer or Soft Shell Jacket must be worn as the outer garment when travelling to and from school.
• The College Blazer is required for all formal College events, including Masses, Assemblies, and Information Evenings.

More information is available on the College website: 

College Uniform – Marist-Sion College

Compulsory Items:

• College Blazer
• Long-Sleeved White Collared Shirt
• College Dark Grey Trousers
  • Compulsory for Years 7–9
  • Optional for Years 10–12 (otherwise wear former taupe trousers)
  • Compulsory for all students from 2024
• College Tartan Skirt
• College Tie
• College Grey Socks or Tights
• Plain, closed-toe black leather lace-up shoes with a heel (no boots)

Optional Items:

• College Jumper
  • Green (Years 7–9)
  • Black (Years 10–12)
• Soft Shell Jacket
• Year 12 Jacket
• College Green or Grey Scarf
• College Beanie
• Black Belt

Student Safety – Bus Travel

We remind all students using College buses to act safely and respectfully when waiting for and boarding the bus. Staff on duty have recently had to speak with students about the importance of patience and safe conduct around the bus areas.

Given the potential for serious harm, students who continue to behave in unsafe ways despite warnings may be removed from College bus services for a period of time. We ask for your support in speaking with your child about responsible behaviour during transport times.

Wellbeing Curriculum – Term 3 Focus

Our College Wellbeing Curriculum helps students across all year levels build a toolkit of strategies to support their health and resilience as young people and members of our community.

This term includes two significant programs:

Teen Mental Health First Aid – Year 8

Year 8 students will participate in this nationally recognised course, designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills to recognise when friends may be experiencing a mental health problem or crisis and to seek support from a trusted adult.

This is an important opportunity for students to build awareness not only to help others, but also to understand when they themselves might need support. This program is part of our Live for Life partnership.

Backflips Against Bullying – Year 7

In the lead-up to the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence (11 August), Year 7 students will engage in the Backflips Against Bullying program. This interactive experience explores key issues such as:

• Power dynamics and resilience
• Cyberbullying
• Physical, verbal, and social harassment
• Real-world consequences
• Recognising and responding to targeted or repeated bullying

These sessions support students to reflect, understand, and respond constructively in a range of social situations.

Where to access support?

The College has a support network for all students to assist in managing their mental health and wellbeing. Students are encouraged to seek wellbeing support from the Counselling and Wellbeing Services Team. Mrs Joanna John (Psychologist) and a team of counsellors are available five days a week to meet with students and families.

Additional support is available by contacting Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, Lifeline on 13 11 14, Parentline Victoria on 13 22 89 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Mr Daniel Nisbet

Deputy Principal: Wellbeing Partnerships and Safety