Wellbeing

'Smashed' Incursion - Year 9 and 10 Pastoral Care

By Sophie Awad and Ashley Do,Year 10 St Catherine

Last Thursday 17th February, the Year 9s and 10s enjoyed an educational performance from the company 'Gibber Education' called 'Smashed'. This performance provided interactive education that empowered our students to behave responsibly and make informed choices.

We, as a class, enjoyed this performance because it was very realistic. It represented the risks and consequences of underage drinking. They included a teenager’s perspective and showed what peer pressure looks like at parties. We also participated in the play which was more than enjoyable. 

Some key points they talked about were the dangers of drinking under 18 years old and how you should be very cautious before going to certain parties/places. 

The play was very informative and educational because they incorporated humour and they played characters to make it more realistic instead of the sit and talk method.' 

Student Leadership Training Day

Wednesday 23rd February saw our Student Leaders participating in their Leadership Training Day. It was a fabulous day of collaboration as the student committees began to plan their events and plans for the year. I was exceptionally proud of the students, their enthusiasm and discussions throughout the day were exciting to witness. I thank them all for their hard work and look forward to seeing them lead our school community. 

The House Leaders have already been busy with running a very successful swimming carnival in week 2 of Term and our Celebrations Leaders were a significant part of our Opening School Mass this week. Today there was lots of planning and anticipation of the year ahead after the last 2 years of interruptions.

On Monday February 21, the Year 11 and 12 Parent Evening was conducted online and we are very grateful to the parents who were able to attend. As well as important information about VCE and VCAL Programs, a strong theme across the presentation was the importance of communication. This is vital for the learning and wellbeing of every Killester student and we encourage students and parents to establish and maintain a strong partnership with the Killester Staff.

It feels like it has been an incredibly long wait but it was worth it to finally gather together as a school community on Tuesday February 22. It was the Opening College Mass for 2022 at the Springvale Town Hall. To see all students and staff celebrating together in prayer and song was an experience that we have dearly missed. Following the Mass, everyone gathered together again to enjoy a BBQ Lunch on the College Oval. We hope we can return to enjoying these wonderful opportunities to build genuine college spirit when we celebrate and appreciate how fortunate we are to be part of such an amazing school community.  

This month on SchoolTV - Understanding Adolescence

Adolescence is the transitional stage of development that is usually associated with the teenage years. In 2018, the Australian Curriculum Assessment Authority, redefined adolescence as affecting young people aged between 10-24 years. During this time, they experience rapid physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth which affects how teenagers feel, think, make decisions and interact with the world around them.

During adolescence, a child's brain can be considered as being “under-construction”. The rate at which this progresses will vary depending on the individual and also their gender. As a result, some parents may view adolescence as stressful or difficult. However, it does not need to be. Setting boundaries, implementing consistent monitoring and maintaining a strong and loving connection will help families adjust during this time.

It is also an important time to keep the communication lines open through clear and age appropriate conversations. Speak openly about changes that they are experiencing and be conscious of their mental health as many of the conditions people confront in adulthood, can begin to manifest in adolescence.

In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers can learn how to guide and best support their young person as they transition through adolescence. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to this month's edition  https://killester.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/understanding-adolescence

In light of this information above, it is a friendly reminder to please communicate with the school if you have any concerns about your daughter. Together we can ensure they are supported and catered for. Please reach out to your daughters Homeroom Teacher, Year Level Leader or Assistant Principals- Students, we would love to hear from you!

Emma Neville (7-9) and Peter Harte (10-12)

Assistant Principals - Students