Term 3 has been jam-packed so far for our junior students with lots of exciting programs and excursions running.

This term started off swimming at our Under the Sea - Junior School Social. The students had the chance to connect with peers with a night that was full of dancing, games and pizza.

On Monday’s a small group of students have been partaking in the Re-Cranked program. The program gives students the opportunity to connect with peers to build new skills, confidence and learn how to repair bikes. So far, the students have successfully repaired five bikes with many more to come.

Our Year 8 students have finished the Live4Life program. The Live4Life model has given our students more knowledge and resilient when it comes to youth mental health. It has helped our young people develop the skills and confidence they need to support their own mental health and that of their peers. All students who participated will receive a certificate in Youth Mental Health and First Aid Training.

This term the Year 9s have been focusing on choosing their subjects for 2025 through an information night, course counselling and working with their careers teachers they have been able to make informed decisions about their subjects for 2025. They also participated in a SMART ASSK program facilitated by Ballarat Community Health. The party safe program covered a range of topics including drug and alcohol use and sexual health and safety.

Uniform reminder: Students are expected to be in full school uniform each day. Hooded jumpers are NOT uniform and should not be worn to school. Students are able to layer up by wearing plain long sleeve white t-shirts. Extra layers should not be visible outside of their uniform. Should you require support purchasing uniform please reach out to the relevant year level leader.

We look forward to having successful rest of term 3 in the Junior School.

Jocelyn Gepp

Head of Junior School

This term our Year 8 students have been participating in the Live4Life program. Live4Life is an evidence-based model for improving youth mental health and reducing suicide. The program aims to increase mental health knowledge, awareness of available help and build community resilience while decreasing suicide rates, barriers to help-seeking, and stigma.

With Live4Life ending, we asked our Year 8’s to reflect on their key takeaways from the program.

A.J – It helped grow my understanding of my feelings and those of others. The resources given to us were insightful, showing us how to support others, what strategies to use, and who to go to for help/support.

Deven – I got a lot out of the sessions. It surprised me how many people experience mental health. I think the information about the symptoms of someone experiencing mental health concerns and how to defuse the situation will be incredibly beneficial.

Winter & Leela – The sessions were very informative. It was helpful for people who don’t understand mental health issues to be more aware of what people with mental health issues are going through. It's given us the courage to confidently help our friends who might be struggling by telling us what warning signs to look out for, outlining what steps to follow, and who to ask for support.

Tess Jennings

Year 8 Coordinator

Literacy Intervention Leader

SAMHS