Wellbeing
Student Engagement
Wellbeing in Term 1
As we reach the final week of term, I’ve been taking a moment to reflect on the incredible growth we’ve seen in our students—not just academically, but in their wellbeing.
Across the school, it has been so rewarding to see students becoming more aware of their emotions and building the confidence to express how they feel. Through daily check-ins, the use of mood meters, and our GEM strategies, students are developing the language and skills to understand themselves and support one another. These small, consistent practices are making a big difference in creating calm, connected classrooms.
Our Wellbeing Hub continues to be a highlight, providing a safe and supportive space for students to pause, reset, and re-engage with their learning when needed. It’s been wonderful to see how positively students are responding to this space and the strategies they are learning.
As we head into the holidays, I encourage all families to take time to slow down, connect, and recharge. Wellbeing is something we nurture every day, and the break is a perfect opportunity to continue those moments of care and connection at home.
This term has been a powerful reminder that when students feel safe, supported, and understood, they are able to truly thrive. Thank you for being part of a community that places such a strong value on wellbeing.
Harmony Day
We would like to thank our wonderful families and students for making Harmony Day such a vibrant and meaningful celebration. It was a joy to see our community come together to embrace diversity, culture, and inclusion. A special thank you to Anna Carnovale, Gloria, and Steve Milicevich for generously giving their time to cook with our students—an experience that was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Throughout the day, students immersed themselves in the spirit of Harmony Day, from dancing the Tarantella, to completing a coin trail, and participating in a variety of engaging cultural activities.
As part of our day, students also took part in the Project Compassion Big Water Walk, building awareness and empathy for the challenges many people around the world face in accessing clean water. We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our staff and the brave students who shared their personal stories—your courage and openness added a powerful and meaningful layer to the day.
It was a truly memorable celebration that reflected the strong sense of belonging within our school.
Wellbeing Hub
The Wellbeing Hub has quickly become a valued and embraced space within our school community. Students and staff alike are recognising it as a safe, supportive environment where students can truly be themselves. Whether it’s a quiet moment to reset, an opportunity to reflect, or a chance to practice emotional regulation strategies, the Hub provides a calm and welcoming space that meets the diverse needs of our learners. Already, it’s clear that this space is helping students feel seen, heard, and supported, reinforcing our commitment to a positive, inclusive, and wellbeing-focused school culture.
Interrelate & Puberty
This term, our Year 3/4 and Year 5/6 families had the opportunity to participate in a parent-and-child information evening on puberty and relationships, run by the Interrelate organisation. Families engaged with the Tricky Talks program, exploring important topics in a safe and supportive setting. Following this evening, the conversations continued back in the Year 5/6 classrooms, where students and staff engaged in thoughtful and vulnerable discussions. It was inspiring to witness the openness, honesty, and respect shown by our students as they navigated these important topics, reinforcing the strong partnerships between home and school in supporting their growth and understanding.
Family Wellbeing Activities for the Holidays
Just in case you need some holiday inspiration, please check out our top 10 ideas below:
Mindful Walks in Nature – Take a walk together in a local park or bushland. Notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Encourage everyone to take deep breaths and appreciate the moment.
Imperfects Podcast Listening – Listen to episodes of The Imperfects podcast as a family. Discuss the ideas and stories shared, and reflect on how they relate to your own experiences.
Resilience Project Hub Activities – Explore the free resources and activities on The Resilience Project Hub. Try gratitude exercises, mindfulness activities, or the “Random Acts of Kindness” challenges as a family.
Family Journaling – Create a simple journal together. Each day, write or draw one thing you are grateful for, one happy moment from the day, or one goal for tomorrow.
Screen-Free Time Challenges – Choose a few hours each day to unplug from devices and focus on board games, creative crafts, or outdoor play.
Cooking and Mindful Eating – Prepare a meal or treat together, paying attention to smells, tastes, and textures. Use this as a moment to slow down and connect.
Family Yoga or Movement Sessions – Follow online family-friendly yoga or movement videos. It’s a great way to release stress, laugh together, and stay active.
Random Acts of Kindness – Encourage children to think of small ways to help others—writing a note for a neighbour, making a small gift, or helping a sibling.
Reflection and Goal Setting – Take a quiet moment together to talk about the past term: what went well, what you learned, and what you’d like to focus on next term.
Creative Expression – Draw, paint, write stories, or create music together. Creative activities are fantastic for expressing emotions and boosting mood.
As we wrap up the term, I would like to sincerely thank all our families for your ongoing support, engagement, and partnership in making this term such a positive and successful one. I wish you a safe, happy, and restful Easter break, full of time with loved ones. I also encourage everyone to take a little time to care for your own health and wellbeing over the holidays—rest, recharge, and enjoy the simple moments that bring you joy. I look forward to welcoming all our students back next term, refreshed and ready for more learning, growth, and connection.
Wishing you a final week filled with moments of gratitude. Please reach out if I can help with anything.
Tracey Farrar (Mental Health & Wellbeing Leader)
tfarrar@sjmitcham.catholic.edu.au