Wellbeing at Northern Bay

During this global pandemic we have learnt a lot about ourselves and the things we can do to increase our wellbeing and mental health. At NBC we will continue to create opportunities for our students and families to increase their overall wellbeing. 

Our wellbeing team is working hard to support families and students now that we are back for Term 3.  We are commencing breakfast programs across the College, although because of COVID this will look different than earlier in the year, and we will be sticking to all of the health and safety guidelines.  

This week we begin a number of engaged play and structured play activities at recess and lunch time on P-8 Campuses.  And for our senior students, we will be running some health and wellbeing activities later in the term. 

We know that by spending time doing activities that we enjoy, whether at home or at school, we will improve our mental health and wellbeing.  There are lots of at home activities that you and the people you live with can do to improve your wellbeing; some things might include:

• Going for a walk or playing with pets
• Listening to music
• Practicing mindfulness (check out https://www.smilingmind.com.au/)
• Having a hot shower when you are feeling down.
• Make sure you are getting enough sleep (aim for 8 hours at a minimum!)

This week I was fortunate enough to sit down with the newest member of the College Wellbeing Team, Georgie Swan.  Georgie is located at the Goldsworthy campus. Georgie and I sat down for a quick Q&A and talked about some things that she does to support and increase her health and wellbeing, especially in the middle of a pandemic and how to access wellbeing support at NBC:

Q: Georgie, tell me a bit about where you worked before coming to NBC?

I have come from Barwon Child Youth and Family in Family Services where I worked for 3.5 years.  Before that I volunteered for Lifeline for 4 years. I am used to a fast-paced environment and am very happy to be part of the Northern Bay team. 

Q: When you are not at work, what do you like to do with your spare time that helps you stay healthy and positive?

I love spending time with my animals. i have two dogs (Scout- GWP and Dexter- Black Labrador) and a Ginger cat called Ginger berry.  I love spending time with friends and families and seeing live bands, musicals and theatre (before COVID).  I am a big movie buff and love to watch a good comedy or thriller movie at home. 

Q: What sort of things can the wellbeing team help students / families with?

The wellbeing team aims to create strong professional relationships with students to help support students with issues such as peers, classes and family issues and we can provide support around mental health.  There is no typical day for the Wellbeing team, and we are happy for any student to come to us if they or their friend is needing extra support.

Q: How can families / students get in contact with the wellbeing team at their campus? 

Students are welcome to come into the Wellbeing offices when they require support or if they would like to get to know the Wellbeing team. Parents and family members are welcome to contact the Wellbeing team by calling the campus office or speaking with their children's teacher(s).