Student Counselling
Jarrad Bigg
On this page: Courage for the Climb Ahead, Psychological assessments with Neurospa
Courage for the Climb Ahead
Jarrad Bigg
Jarrad Bigg
Last week marked an important moment for our Year 12 students as they concluded their final lessons at Emmaus and turned their attention to the last stage of their school journey: exams.
While there is still work ahead, they can take a moment to reflect on how far they have come. Over the years, they have faced challenges, setbacks, successes, disappointments, and growth. The coming weeks are not simply about academic performance; they are the culmination of years of perseverance, commitment, and learning.
As a part of the wellbeing team, I wish them every success as they prepare, study, and sit their final exams.
While our Year 12 students focus on the finish line, many of our younger students are beginning to look towards new horizons. Our Year 6 students are preparing for the transition into Secondary School, and our Year 11 students are preparing to become the senior leaders of our school community.
Transitions can sometimes feel daunting. New expectations, greater responsibility, unfamiliar environments, and the possibility of failure can all create uncertainty. Yet some of life's greatest opportunities are found on the other side of taking a brave step forward.
From a wellbeing perspective, confidence and resilience are not developed by avoiding challenges. They are built by facing them. Every new season presents young people with an opportunity to discover strengths they did not know they possessed. The students who thrive are rarely those who encounter no obstacles. More often than not, they are the ones who learn to keep moving forward when obstacles arise.
For parents, this can be a powerful reminder. Our role is not to remove every challenge from our children's path, but to equip them to face those challenges with courage.
Encouragement, belief, guidance, and a listening ear help young people develop confidence in their own ability to navigate what lies ahead.
As important as it is to look ahead, there is also value in embracing the present. The summer holidays provide a chance for students and families to catch their breath, celebrate the year's victories and enjoy a season of rest before the next challenge begins.
Every climber pauses at times to look back on the ground they have covered before turning their eyes to the next peak. The holidays are an opportunity to do just that. To recharge, reconnect, and prepare for the exciting journey that lies ahead.
As Joshua stood on the edge of a significant new season, God spoke words that continue to encourage believers today:
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Jarrad Bigg
Student Counsellor, South Plympton
