Wellbeing

Creating a Culture of Belonging  

Article by Nala Tubb, Head of Student Character and Wellbeing  

As the academic year gets underway, our Prep students commenced their extended school days, creating enriched opportunities for social connection and strengthening their sense of belonging within the College community. 

The transition into Middle School can be a significant milestone, often accompanied by uncertainty. This week, however, our Year 5 students were welcomed through a thoughtfully designed experience that fostered connection, cultural understanding, and inclusion. The assembly commenced with a smoking ceremony, followed by an Aboriginal education session that powerfully interwove storytelling and song. Together, these experiences emphasised the centrality of belonging through authentic acceptance, drawing on personal narratives and longstanding cultural traditions. 

Students were introduced to the possum skin cloak, a deeply symbolic cultural artefact that honours individual life stories from birth to death. The cloak represents continuity, respect for the past, and openness to new beginnings. Students also expanded their understanding of Country, learning, for example, that possum fur is the third warmest natural fibre in the world; an insight that connected cultural knowledge with scientific learning. 

Opportunities for connection were further strengthened through yarn circles, where students introduced themselves and identified common interests. Games inspired by Wurrundjeri and Yorta Yorta traditions provided engaging and meaningful ways for students to develop new skills while building collaboration and teamwork. While circle-time routines are already embedded within the Junior School wellbeing curriculum, their continuation in Middle School supported a smooth and familiar transition, reinforcing continuity in learning and care. 

Educational experiences such as these reflect the College’s commitment to its core values of learning and community. As students’ progress through Year 9, Senior School and beyond, these early foundations of belonging remain critical. Dr Doug Fisher, Professor of Educational Leadership, emphasises that a strong sense of connection is fundamental to student wellbeing and engagement. When learners see themselves reflected in classroom practices, shared stories, and cultural traditions, they are more likely to feel secure, confident, and ready to learn. 

A suggestion for families:

• Consider incorporating “yarn circle style” conversations at home, where each family member shares a highlight or challenge from their day. 

As students advance from year to year, it becomes increasingly clear that belonging is not merely an emotion, but a cornerstone of their educational journey. Through ceremonial assemblies, shared stories, collaborative learning, and inclusive play, students are continually reminded that connection and acceptance begin the moment they step through the College doors.