Wellbeing and Engagement
Staff Development Day
On 20 April, our staff participated in a professional workshop focused on better understanding their individual and collective wellbeing. This matters because the strength of our staff relationships and our ability to enhance student wellbeing directly depend on what staff can invest of themselves each day.
We were fortunate to collaborate with Meg Durham, a renowned wellbeing educator and motivational speaker. Meg's insights centred on the distinction between our “thriving self” and our “surviving self”. We spent time reflecting on how these aspects shape who we are at work and how this influences the quality of our relationships with each other and our students. What Meg shared may also resonate with you as parents and in your own professional contexts.
Meg emphasised the importance of “fuelling your battery”. She introduced five key components necessary to enhance daily wellbeing. Purposeful sleep, physical activity to boost your energy levels and mood, nutritious foods, rest, and connection with family and friends.
It’s important to note that while sleep is essential, rest serves a different purpose. Rest is about doing things that bring you joy and relaxation. Think about how you unwind after a busy day or week. How do you recharge?
As we move into the weekend, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your own wellbeing. Consider which areas of your battery you might focus on to fuel the best version of yourself.
To learn more, follow Meg Durham’s Podcast. https://www.megdurham.com/podcast
Pink and Green Day: Moving Towards a Cure
On 28 April, our College was transformed into a sea ofpink and green as we came together in compassion and unity to raise awareness and funds for research into Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Pink and Green Day holds special significance as we honour the memory of our much-missed Loreto student, Ava, who bravely faced this devastating illness.
We were privileged to welcome Amanda Luck, the Paediatric Neuro-Oncology Research Manager and Brain Tumour Biobank Coordinator at the SAHMRI and the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, to our Senior School Assembly. Amanda provided our students with valuable insights into DIPG and explained how biobanking is advancing research efforts aimed at improving treatment outcomes and survival rates for children battling brain cancer. We are deeply grateful to Amanda for sharing her expertise and shedding light on how researchers are working towards a cure.
At lunchtime, in a spirit of friendly competition, our Year 12 leadership team faced off against the Year 12 leadership team from Rostrevor College in our annual Pink and Green netball match. I am thrilled to announce that Loreto emerged victorious, much to the delight and celebration of all the girls.
Thank you to everyone who participated and raised funds for RunDIPG this week.
Suzie Crowe
Assistant Principal: Wellbeing and Engagement