Wellbeing at TPS

Talk Plan Play

Our Wellbeing Leaders, Mitch, Eli, Zoe and Ayla, have started implementing ‘Talk, Plan, Play’ to support students in having a positive and enjoyable experience in the yard. The team thoughtfully considered the type of environment that best supports regulation and play planning, and have created a relaxing and inclusive space for students to access during break times.

The area includes fidgets, games, books and simple play plans to help guide students who may feel unsure about what to do. It’s a wonderful option for those who would prefer a calm space to relax, reset, or plan their play before joining others.

The leaders have been introducing this structured activity during the Morning Message, and students can access the space every second break. Stay tuned for more updates at Assembly and in upcoming newsletters!

Supporting Students during NAPLAN

For many children, the thought of taking a test can feel confusing and sometimes a little scary. For our Year 3 students sitting NAPLAN for the first time, it may feel overwhelming. Others may seem unfazed and comfortable with the idea of participating.

It’s completely normal for children to experience a mix of emotions in the lead-up to NAPLAN. As parents and carers, your reassurance and the language you use can make a significant difference.

Dr Helen Schiele, Principal Consultant and Early Years Specialist at Independent Schools Victoria, emphasises the importance of positive messaging:

“It’s important your child knows that you will remain incredibly proud of them no matter the test results, as long as they tried their best and were able to draw upon a series of strategies to help them manage the testing space. A test should be seen as a celebration of what your child knows, understands and how they can demonstrate their thinking.”

Helping Your Child Manage NAPLAN Nerves

If your child is feeling worried or anxious, here are some practical ways you can support them.

Have positive and encouraging conversations

• Ask your child what they might be feeling unsure or worried about.
• Listen calmly and reassure them that their feelings are normal.
• Offer supportive guidance and remind them they are capable.

Prioritise sleep and healthy eating

• Ensure your child gets plenty of rest each night.
• Provide balanced meals and regular snacks.
• Being well-rested and nourished helps children stay calm, focused and confident at school.

Encourage active play and limit screen time

• Balance screen use with outdoor play and physical activity.
• Encourage activities your child enjoys to help reduce stress.
• Movement and fresh air support concentration and wellbeing.

Celebrate effort, not outcomes

• Remind your child you are proud of them for trying their best.
• Reinforce that one test does not define who they are.
• Praise persistence, resilience and courage over results.

Additional wellbeing supports available for all TPS families

• Ballarat Health Service Access and Triage, or call 1300 094 187 for urgent mental health support
• Suicide Call Back Service, or call 1300 659 467 
• Lifeline, or call 13 11 14,  or Text 0477 13 11 14 
• Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support line 13YARNor call 13 92 76 
• Kids Helpline or call 1800 551 800 
• Beyond Blue or call 1300 224 636 
• Headspace or call 1800 650 890. Headspace also have online chat services that can be accessed at Online & phone support | headspace 
• Grief & Loss - The Trauma and Grief Network (TGN) (anu.edu.au)  
• Supporting primary school-age children through grief - Emerging Minds 
• How to support your family and yourself through grief and loss - Emerging Minds