Wellbeing

Term 2 has been a busy and rewarding time across the College, with many exciting initiatives supporting student growth and wellbeing. The Wellbeing Team was proud to be part of the Year 9 Ignite program. Our involvement included organising guest presenters such as The School of Play, as well as designing lessons focused on budgeting, career planning, and life skills to help students build confidence and independence.  

A particular highlight of the Ignite program was the series of short courses, where students had the opportunity to earn micro-credentials in barista skills, food handling, and non-alcoholic beverage preparation. These hands-on experiences were incredibly well received by the students, who enjoyed learning practical, real-world skills that they can take with them beyond the classroom.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our families for the ongoing support you provide your young person—encouraging their engagement in learning, supporting consistent school attendance, and promoting respectful and positive interactions with staff and peers.

As we wrap up the term, we wish all students and families a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable holiday break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in Term 3—rested, recharged, and ready to approach Semester 2 with renewed energy and focus.

We’re excited for what’s ahead in Term 3, with new opportunities, programs and support to continue building a strong, connected and thriving school community, as outlined in the table below.

If you would like to arrange wellbeing support for your child with one of our counsellors or our provisional psychologist, please contact me or the Director of the relevant sub-school/coordinator.

We can also support families with access to books and uniforms through State Schools Relief and the Les Twentyman Foundation.  Again, please contact me or your child’s Director of Sub-school/coordinator to let them know which items you require. 

If you or your young person need support during the break, please refer to the Helpful Contacts listed at the bottom of the page.

Warm regards 🙂

Kerri Haworth

Director of Wellbeing

RAISE Mentoring Program - this 17 week program will continue in Term 3.  Facilitated by RAISE Foundation, volunteer mentors come in each Wednesday afternoon and spend 1:1 time with their mentee in the Library.  This is an evidence-based program that has been successful for many young people.

Breakfast Club

Don't forget about our Breakfast Club, which runs every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 8.15am to 8.45am, offering cheese toasties and fruit cups. We also have free apples available in the front office for all students, and we kindly ask that they be mindful of where they dispose of apple cores. Organic waste bins are conveniently placed throughout the school grounds, particularly in the large courtyard outside the canteen.

Maths Club

For those needing extra help, students can get assistance with Maths every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 3.15pm to 4.00pm in B1 and/or B2. Please speak to your child's Maths teacher if you would like to know more.

Meet the team for 2025

Kerri Haworth                                Nella Foley                                       Dan Ferdinands

Director of Wellbeing                  Mental Health Practitioner         Youth Engagement Officer

(Monday - Friday)                         (Monday - Thursday)                     (Monday - Friday)

     Jane O'Callaghan                          Nicole Huang                         Donna Hurst                      

    Youth Worker Les Foundation   Counsellor                               Counsellor

     (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday    (Friday)                                      (Tuesday and Wednesday)

       and Friday)

                                                              Patty

                                                              Therapy Dog

                                                               (various days)

Wellbeing Contact Form

Contact our Cheltenham Secondary College Wellbeing team directly with any concerns or issues and one of the team will get back to you. The form can be accessed here.

Helpful Contacts

Headspace

http://www.headspace.org.au/

Headspace Centres can be a one-stop shop for all young people who just need some help with everyday stuff or wellbeing and physical health. 

Kids Helpline

https://kidshelpline.com.au/

Kids Helpline is across Australia, it is free, private and confidential 24/7. Mainly for young people aged 5 to age 25.

Call them on.. 1800 55 1800

Lifeline

https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Provides all Australians everywhere experiencing a personal crisis allowing 24-hour support. Call them on.. 13 11 14

Beyond Blue

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Provides information and support which helps tackle head-on the effects of mental health issues no matter where or what age. 

Call them on.. 1300 22 4636

Parentline

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/serviceprofiles/parentline-service

Fantastic service for parents and carers of young children from a few days of age all the way up to 18-year-olds. This service offers counselling and support which is confidential and anonymous on all issues around parenting.  Call them on...13 22 89.