Banner Photo

Student Wellbeing 

Finishing the Year Strong 

A Message for Year 11 & 12 Students

We are reaching the final weeks of Term 4, so it’s a great time to pause and take stock of everything you’ve achieved this year. For some of you, it’s been about tackling your first set of major exams, learning to manage your time, and finding a balance between study, work, and life. For others, it’s the end of a huge chapter, the last year of school, final assessments, and the countdown to what comes next.

 

This time of year can bring up all sorts of feelings, pride, stress, excitement, maybe even uncertainty. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. You’ve worked hard to get here, and it’s okay to slow down, breathe, and recognise your effort. Every assignment finished, every challenge you’ve overcome, and every goal you’ve moved closer to, they’ve all helped shape your growth this year.

 

As you wrap things up, remember that taking care of yourself matters just as much as studying or celebrating. The way you end the year sets the tone for what comes next, so make time to rest, reflect, and finish in a way that feels healthy and positive.

 

Healthy Study Habits

For those still preparing for exams or final assessments, focus on studying in ways that actually support your wellbeing.

  • Have a plan: Create a simple schedule that breaks study into smaller, achievable chunks. Having structure reduces stress and gives you a sense of control.

  • Prioritise rest: Sleep helps your brain process and remember information, it’s a key part of learning, not a luxury.

  • Get moving: Even short bursts of activity, a walk, stretch, or dance break can refresh your focus.

  • Eat well and hydrate: Keep your energy steady with real food and water. Your brain runs best when your body feels good.

  • Limit distractions: Set short, focused study blocks, put your phone aside, and reward yourself with breaks.

Remember: consistency and self-care beat last-minute panic every time.

 

Self-Care and Mindset

It’s easy to forget about your mental health when deadlines and exams pile up, but looking after yourself is a key part of doing well.

  • Be kind to yourself! Everyone hits a wall sometimes, it’s how you respond that counts.

  • Take breaks that recharge you. Spend time outdoors, connect with friends, or do something creative.

  • Keep things in perspective. One result doesn’t define you. You’re learning skills that go far beyond the classroom.

  • Reach out for support. If things feel overwhelming, speak to your teachers, wellbeing staff, or someone you trust. You don’t have to manage everything alone.

 

For Year 12s: Celebrate Responsibly

Congratulations on reaching the end of your school journey! You’ve put in years of effort, faced challenges head-on, and grown into young adults ready for the next step. Take a moment to really appreciate how far you’ve come.

 

As you celebrate, keep safety and respect at the heart of your choices.

  • Look out for one another. Make sure your friends are safe and that everyone has a way home.

  • Think before you post. Social media moments can last longer than the night, make sure they’re ones you’re proud of.

  • Know your limits. You can have fun without taking risks that could cause harm or regret.

  • Celebrate your way. Do what feels authentic to you, whether that’s a quiet dinner, a night out, or time with close friends.

You’ve earned the right to celebrate, and doing it responsibly means you’ll actually remember and enjoy it.

 

For Year 11s: Rest and Recharge

You’ve done the hard work this year, now it’s time to reset before your final year begins.

  • Take the break seriously, your brain and body need it.

  • Reflect on what worked well this year and what habits you want to build next year.

  • Keep a bit of structure over the holidays, but don’t forget to have fun.

  • Connect with the people who recharge your energy and remind you of who you are outside of school.

Next year will come with new challenges, but also new opportunities to show how much you’ve grown.

 

So that’s it!

As the year comes to an end, take a moment to look back, not just at your grades or results, but at everything you’ve learned about yourself. Think about the times you showed resilience, kindness, or courage. Think about how much you’ve changed since the start of the year. Those are the things that truly matter.

 

If you’re finishing school, go forward knowing that you’re ready for whatever’s next. If you’re returning next year, take the lessons you’ve learned and build on them.

 

Most importantly, use the holidays to rest, recharge, and celebrate all that you’ve achieved. You’ve worked hard, grown stronger, and earned the right to enjoy this next chapter. Stay safe, be proud!

 

 

Gallery Image

Breakfast Club

Students are warmly invited to Breakfast Club!

Start your day right with a healthy breakfast and some good company. Eating well in the morning supports your focus, energy and overall wellbeing. It also helps you feel ready to tackle the day!

Gallery Image

Breakfast is a great way to connect with your peers, make friends and feel included in the school community. Whether you want to grab a quick bite or hang out before classes, you’re welcome anytime.

 

When: Every Tuesday & Thursday,

Time:  8:05am – 8:35am  

Where: K1 (SLC)  

Accessibility: Free and open to all students 

This initiative is made possible thanks to our incredible staff, volunteers, and local partners. If you’d like to contribute or donate, we’d love to hear from you! We look forward to seeing you there! 

 

Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image

Looking for Support?  

Gallery Image

Knox Youth Services 

Free support for young people aged 10 to 25yrs.  

2 Capital City Blvd, Wantirna South 

(03) 9298 8469

 

Headspace Knox 

Confidential support for young people aged 12 to 25Y

Westfield Knox Ozone 

(03) 9801 6088 

 

EACH Community Health 

Counselling, mental health and wellbeing services 

Phone: 1300 003 224

 

EACH - Health Services 1300 003 224

These services are free or low-cost. 

93 Boronia Rd, Boronia

Gallery Image

Youth Mental Health Services 9298 8469

2 Capital City Blvd, Wantirna South 

headspace 1800 650 890

2 Capital City Blvd, Wantirna South 

Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre 1800 015 188 (24 Hours)

1800 Respect 1800 737 732 (24 Hours)

Nurse on Call 1300 60 60 24

The Butterfly Foundation  9822 5771

FriendLine 1800 424 287

 

24/7 Mental Health Hotlines:

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

Lifeline - Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online.

Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au 

Beyond Blue 1300 224 636

 

Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image
Gallery Image

Student Wellbeing Team

Email: wellbeing@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au

 

Chelsea Collings - Leader of Wellbeing

Guiseppe Relia – Wellbeing Counsellor

Sanela Avdic - Wellbeing Counsellor

Talea-Jane Simpson – Wellbeing Counsellor

Tajinder Wulff - Mental Health Practitioner 7-8