Student Wellbeing
FEELINGS FRIDAY
Last Friday, our whole school came together in vertical Wellbeing Groups for some important learning around emotional literacy.
Students deepened their understanding of the Mood Meter, learning to identify and name their emotions more precisely. They also explored a range of “tools” (coping strategies) that can help them regulate their emotions when needed.
It is wonderful to see our entire school aligned in this way — using the same language, the same framework, and the same personalised Emotion Toolboxes displayed on desks across classrooms. This shared approach builds confidence, clarity and consistency for our students.
Below is what our Emotion Toolboxes looked like (before we added our tools):
We strongly encourage families to continue using this same language at home when discussing feelings and coping tools.
For example:
- “What colour are you on the Mood Meter right now?”
- “What tool could help you in this moment?”
“Do you need a breathing tool, a movement tool, or a thinking tool?”
Remember — positive modelling is the most powerful way to teach our children. When they see us naming our own feelings and choosing helpful tools, they learn that all emotions are valid — and that it’s how we respond that matters most.
Congratulations to the following students who were presented with a Responsibility Award on Friday.
Week 4: Yaresh, Samuel S, Neve, Poppy and Charlie Y PLUS Talia!
Week 5:
WELLBEING WAGON
The wonderful 'Wellbeing Wagon' was relaunched last week with a great response from students. It is mostly student-led, with our Wellbeing Leaders, Amelie and Talia, taking responsibility for the organisation. The following afternoon recess times are available for the students.
- Tues: Prep/1
- Wed: 2/3
- Thurs: 4-6
What is it?
It’s a space designed to:
- Promote positive mental health and resilience,
- Give students practical strategies to regulate emotions,
- Celebrate kindness, support and connection,
Offer a moment of calm or skill-building during the school day.
Who is it for?
Students who:
- Need a quiet, safe space to regroup
- Find break times overwhelming and too long
SEASONS FOR GROWTH PROGRAM - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST WELCOME
At St James, we are committed to supporting students’ wellbeing and emotional development. Next term, we will be offering a small group program called Seasons for Growth, designed to help children build skills in understanding and managing feelings such as change, loss, friendships, and life challenges.
Seasons for Growth provides students with a safe and supportive space to share, reflect, and learn positive coping strategies alongside their peers.
Seasons for Growth supports children and young people who have experienced change and loss, including, although not limited to, friendship changes; family separation; loss or death of someone they care about; loss of a pet; relocation and forced migration; living away in out-of-home care; physical or mental illness; or impacts of war, terrorism or pandemics.
We are currently inviting families to express interest in their child participating in this program. If you feel your child would benefit from being part of a Seasons for Growth group, please contact me via email, and I will be happy to provide further information.
PARENTING SUPPORT - HEALTH ABILITY
Please continue to reach out via email or phone should you have any questions or concerns. I am always happy to chat or meet with you to discuss anything wellbeing related, and to work together in supporting your child’s social, emotional, and learning needs.
Monica De Leo
Student Wellbeing Leader
monica.deleo@sjvermont.catholic.edu.au
Victorian Child Safety Standards
Here is the Catholic Education Council of Victoria's revised statement of commitment to Child Safety which we abide by:
Parent Resources
Click here for access to the Smiling Mind Website
Smiling Mind’s vision is to help every mind thrive. Their mission is to provide accessible life-long tools to support healthy minds.
Click here for access to the Student Wellbeing Hub Website
It includes sections for parents, teachers and students with practical strategies and resources to support your child's wellbeing.
Click here for Raising Children Network
Reliable, and up-to-date information to help your family grow and thrive together.
Click here for access to Parenting Ideas Blog
It includes articles, testimonials and practical tips on a wide variety of topics.
Click here for Iparent - Office of eSafety Commissioner
To learn about the digital environment and how to help your child have safe and enjoyable online experiences.
Click here for access to CatholicCare
It is a social service agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, they offer a range of programs and services that aim to build and strengthen relationships.
Click here for access to Beyond Blue
This website is regularly updated with information, advice and strategies to help you manage your wellbeing and mental health during this time. And you can stay up-to-date by joining our email community.
Positive Parenting Telephone Service 1800 880 660
Participants complete a workbook or online modules which are supported by weekly 30 minute phone calls with a trained parenting educator. All of this can be done from the comfort of your own home at a time that suits you.
Parentline 13 22 89
Parentline is available 8am to midnight, 7 days a week. It is a confidential and anonymous phone counselling service for parents and carers of children and teenagers in Victoria.
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
The Kids Helpline is Australia's only free, private, and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Counselling is currently offered by phone, Webchat and email.