WELLBEING

The Wellbeing Team warmly welcomes you to the 2025 school year. We hope this year brings many positive experiences for our students. Our dedicated team is here to support your child as they navigate any personal challenges they may face, we aim to create a nurturing and inclusive environment that helps our students grow and thrive.

In partnership with The Resilience Project, we are continuing to implement their resilience-building model in the Wellbeing classes for Year 7 and Year 8 students. This curriculum provides students with essential skills while fostering a strong connection between home and school. We will continue to share insights and resources through our newsletter and social media platforms, supporting both educational achievement and student wellbeing.

This year we are excited to welcome Paula Stevens to the Wellbeing Team on a full-time basis. Paula holds a Diploma in Counselling and joins us from Balranald Central School, where she provided student support services. She also brings valuable experience from her time as a counsellor at MDAS. Paula will be working alongside Gemma Phelan and Tylah Gibbins as part of our dedicated team of student counsellors, whose expertise plays a crucial role in supporting the diverse needs of our students. This year, Mandy McCallum and Gemma are sharing the role of Director of Wellbeing, with Mandy working Thursday and Fridays and Gemma working Monday to Friday. 

Navigating the Transition from Primary to High School

As the new year begins, many students are facing significant transitions that come with both excitement and challenges. For Year 7 students moving from primary school to high school, this  transition can bring mixed emotions. For Year 7 students, starting secondary school is a monumental change. New teachers, new subjects, and new classmates can be overwhelming, especially for students who may experience anxiety about the unknown. It's important for students, parents, and teachers to work together to ensure a smooth and successful start to the year.

How Parents Can Support Year 7 Students:

• Acknowledge the Transition: Understand that it’s completely normal for Year 7 students to feel nervous or uncertain. Starting high school is a big change, and emotional support from parents is essential.

• Encourage Open Communication: Let your child know that it’s okay to talk about their worries. Create a space where they feel comfortable expressing their feelings, whether it’s about school work, friendships, or other aspects of high school life.

• Create a Routine: Help your child establish a daily routine that includes time for homework, rest, and extracurricular activities. A predictable schedule can provide a sense of stability and control.

• Focus on Building Friendships: Starting at a new school can be tough, especially for those with social anxiety, but focusing on building friendships can make it easier. Encourage your child to participate in school activities that match their interests, whether it’s joining clubs, group projects, or games where they can connect with others naturally. Being open, approachable, and patient while showing kindness and active listening will help them make meaningful connections and feel more comfortable in their new environment.

If you believe your child could benefit from Wellbeing support, please don't hesitate to contact the Wellbeing Team on 03 5032 9771.