Upper School

Connection, Wellbeing, Diversity and Adventure

Term 3 has been a wonderful opportunity for our Upper School students to come together, build connections and embrace new experiences. From celebrating inclusion and checking in with one another to stepping outside the classroom for a memorable snow camp, as well as many Upper School students being involved in the school production, the term has been filled with meaningful moments and a strong sense of community.

Wear It Purple Day provided our school community with an opportunity to celebrate diversity, inclusion and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported. Students and staff embraced the spirit of the day by wearing purple and taking time to reflect on the value of acceptance, respect and belonging.

R U OK? Day was another opportunity to focus on connection and wellbeing. Students were encouraged to think about the people around them and the simple but powerful act of asking, “Are you OK?” Through conversations and activities in the Upper School "R U OK Cafe", students explored the importance of looking out for one another and recognising that a genuine conversation can make a difference. The day reinforced the message that supporting our friends and classmates is something we can do every day, not just on R U OK? Day.

For many students, the Steiner snow camp was a highlight of Term 3. The camp provided students with the chance to experience the outdoors, challenge themselves and enjoy time together away from the usual school environment. These shared experiences created plenty of memories and strengthened the sense of connection between students.

This term our Extended Mentor sessions have provided students with a range of valuable lessons designed to support their wellbeing, personal development and future success. Students participated in the “Be Ahead of the Game” gambling awareness program, which focused on making informed choices and understanding the potential risks associated with gambling. Students also developed practical study skills, reflected on work experience, worked on goal setting and learned strategies for managing stress. These sessions have encouraged students to build positive habits, develop greater self-awareness and equip themselves with skills that will support them both at school and beyond.

Across all these events, a common theme has been the importance of community. Whether we were celebrating inclusion, checking in with each other or supporting one another through a new challenge, Term 3 has reminded us that learning extends well beyond the classroom. We look forward to carrying this sense of connection, acceptance, kindness and adventure into the remainder of the school year, as Upper School students prepare to begin or continue their VCE and VCE-VM journeys.