Wellbeing & Engagement

Wellbeing and Engagement – Term 2 Summary

Term 2 has been another highly positive and productive period for Wellbeing and Engagement across Castlemaine Secondary College. It has been immensely pleasing to see the continuation of the many successes established earlier in the year, with a strong and consistent focus on fostering connection, inclusion and support for all students.

A key strength throughout the term has been the continued success of our Sub-School model, which is clearly strengthening relationships and promoting a strong sense of belonging within year level cohorts. Students are increasingly connected to their peers and staff, which has contributed to a calm, orderly and positive school culture across the college.

We are also delighted to welcome Brita Johanson to the role of Upper School Wellbeing Support Person. Her experience and dedication are already having a meaningful impact in supporting our senior students as they navigate the academic and personal challenges of the later years of schooling.

It has been particularly encouraging to observe a significant decrease in concerning behaviours across the college. This improvement reflects the collective efforts of staff, students and families in upholding our shared expectations and values. Alongside this, there has been an increased presence of student leadership, with students taking greater ownership of their roles in shaping a respectful and inclusive school environment.

Throughout the term, there has also been a strong focus on targeted support for students who require additional assistance in navigating the complexities of secondary education. Our staff continue to work proactively to ensure that every student feels supported both academically and in terms of their wellbeing and engagement.

A key initiative supporting this work in 2026 is our Case Management Collaboration model. This involves teams of teachers meeting weekly to identify and implement consistent, in-class supports for students identified by Year Level Leaders as requiring additional academic, wellbeing or engagement strategies. This collaborative approach is strengthening consistency across classrooms and ensuring that students receive cohesive and responsive support.

Students have also responded positively to the introduction of outdoor table tennis equipment located outside each sub-school building. These additions have created more opportunities for active, social break-time engagement, further enhancing collegiality and student connection.

Overall, Term 2 has been a highly positive and supportive term, with clear evidence of growth in student engagement, connection and wellbeing.

Looking ahead to Term 3, we are excited to build on this momentum. Plans include the rollout of targeted wellbeing programs within each sub-school, alongside a carefully structured extended mentor curriculum designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for their ongoing development.

We will also strengthen our College identity through a renewed focus on the House system, including an upcoming House Branding Art Competition, which will provide students with a creative opportunity to contribute to school spirit and pride.

Finally, we extend our sincere thanks to all members of the Castlemaine Secondary College community. Your continued support plays a vital role in making our college a truly inclusive, positive and supportive environment for staff, students and parents/carers alike.

Christopher Hewitt, Assistant Principal (Wellbeing & Engagement)