Wellbeing update

The Wellbeing Team at Koonung

The start of term 3 has been busy for the wellbeing team with a range of programs and small groups happening across the term. We have also been busy planning for some exciting projects which will be happening this term. 

Creating Routines 

As we move into the second semester, it can be tricky to continue to have motivation during the colder months. One way we can look after ourselves going into a new semester is by focusing on our routines to set ourselves up for success. Routines can be helpful for study, sleep, school and other parts of our lives 

Tips for creating routines:

Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve with your routine (e.g., better grades, improved health).

Start Small: Begin with small, manageable changes and gradually build up.

Be Flexible: Allow some flexibility to adapt to changes and unexpected events.

Prioritize: Focus on including essential activities that support your wellbeing and goals.

Review and Adjust: Regularly review your routine and make adjustments as needed to stay on track.

Term 3 programs 

Teen Mental Health First Aid program 

Over term 3, the Wellbeing Team have been facilitating the Teen Mental Health First Aid program with the year 8 cohort which is a program designed for young people to learn the skills and steps to support a friend experiencing a mental health program and seek the support from a trusted adult. This program encourages students to notice warning signs and get the support of a trusted adult to support their friends. Mental Health First Aid is a part of a whole school approach to wellbeing and we have been very excited to continue its roll out both to staff and students.

Study and Snack 

This term, the Wellbeing Team have launched a new initiative called Study and Snack. This provides students with a space after school to complete homework and have a social chat with a member of the Wellbeing Team. This program runs every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in MYC from 3pm-4pm. And of course there are snacks!

Study Without Stress Program 

The Wellbeing Team have been facilitating Macquarie universities’ Study Without Stress program with a group of year 10 and 11 students this term. Throughout the program students will learn a range of skills to help them understand and manage their study related stress as well as learn valuable tips to help them study more efficiently. 

Peaceful Teens Program 

Due to it’s success last term, the Wellbeing Team are facilitating 2 groups of the Peaceful Teens program in term 3. Peaceful Teens is a Mindfulness and Positive Psychology based program to reduce anxiety and stress and increase resilience. The program gives students the skills, practice and support to utilise coping strategies. We are currently running a year 7 and a year 9 group this term. 

Clubs

Wellbeing Wednesdays – Every Wednesday Lunchtime in the Wellbeing Office 

Breakfast Club – Every Friday Morning, 8:15am in the Food Tech Room

Upcoming events this term 

Middle years Wellbeing days 

Year 7 - Thursday 15 August

Year 9 - Friday 16 August 

Year 8 - Monday 19 August 

R U OK DAY – Thursday 12 September 

Please remember that our door is open, and we are here to support all students. You can visit any of us in the wellbeing space or contact us on our email accounts through your school email.

Kate O’Keefe – Director of Wellbeing - Kate.OKeefe@education.vic.gov.au 

Emily Ridgwell – Mental Health Practitioner - Emily.Ridgwell@education.vic.gov.au 

Eryn Tyler – School Counsellor - Eryn.Tyler@education.vic.gov.au 

Ella Cogger – School Counsellor - Ella.Cogger@education.vic.gov.au 

Liz Senior – Student Wellbeing Officer - elizabeth.senior@education.vic.gov.au 

The Wellbeing Team