Wellbeing

Leader: Geenah Loughran

National Child Protection Week 6-12th September

Every conversation matters and what we do next matters too

National Child Protection Week runs from 6-12 September 2026. This year’s theme, 'Every conversation matters: shifting conversation to action', reminds us that listening to children and young people is one of the most important things adults can do but listening also needs to be followed by action.

At St Patrick's Tongala, we want every child and young person to know that they have a voice, that there are adults who will listen, and that they can seek help when something worries them or does not feel safe.

Start the conversation - Five conversations worth having at home

Who are the adults you would go to if you needed help?
What makes you feel really listened to?
Is there anywhere - in person or online - where you sometimes feel uncomfortable or unsafe?
What do adults sometimes misunderstand about being your age?
If you told me something difficult, what would you want me to do?

When children raise a concern, adults do not need to have every answer. Staying calm, listening carefully, taking the concern seriously and helping the child access appropriate support can make an important difference.

Child safety is a shared responsibility. By keeping conversations open and being prepared to act, families, schools and communities can work together to help children feel safe, supported, respected and heard.

R U OK? Day

Wear Yellow on Thursday 10th September 2027

On R U OK? Day 2026, St Patrick's Primary School will be joining communities across Australia to raise awareness about the importance of checking in with others and supporting wellbeing.

To acknowledge the day, students are invited to wear yellow and take part in a range of fun lunchtime activities.

Students will have the opportunity to enjoy colouring-in and craft activities while spending time with friends and learning about the importance of starting meaningful conversations.

R U OK? Day reminds us that a simple question, "Are you okay?", can make a big difference. At St Patrick's, we encourage our students to be kind, connect with others, and know that it is always okay to ask for help when they need it.

We look forward to a wonderful day of connection, friendship and wellbeing across our school community.

Wellbeing and Community Partnership Groups

Wellbeing & Community Partnerships Groups Thrive

Our Wellbeing and Community Partnerships groups have been busy, productive, and most importantly, having lots of fun!

The Sewing Group has been developing their skills and is now confidently learning how to use sewing machines. Students have shown great enthusiasm as they take the next step in their sewing journey and begin creating more detailed designs for thier bags.

The Senior Hands-On Group has proudly started building their own toolboxes. Students are learning practical skills, using tools safely, and enjoying the opportunity to create something they can be proud of.

Meanwhile, the Mini Hands-On Group has established a fantastic routine around the school. Each week they help feed the chickens, pull weeds, and assist in keeping our school grounds neat and tidy. They even sanded the toolboxes for the Senior Hands on Group!

Their commitment and teamwork are helping make St Patrick's an even more welcoming place for everyone.