5-8 Community News
It has been a big fortnight for our students in the 5-8 Community.
This week, students in Years 7 and 8, heard from the organisation Real Talk which presented a series of content and discussion areas, all related to personal growth. The presenters were incredibly funny as they connected with the students in a sensitive and a respectful manner. The students enjoyed engaging with the conversations and coming in their comfortable clothing.
The presentation covered the topics of:
- Human dignity
- Informed consent
- Why consent is important
- Consent laws
- Respect for self and others
- Online safety
- Cyberbullying
- Digital Reputation
- Social media
- Online relationships
- Sexting, and
- Healthy tech use
The Years 5 and 6 students were blessed with some marvellous weather for yesterday's F-6 sporting carnival. The students were decked out in their Augustine, Bridigine, and Delany house colours as they celebrated the carnival by completing various athletics activities. Over the course of the term, Mr Coombs and Miss Brereton have provided students with the opportunities to practice these activities in their physical activity lessons.
Since the beginning of this term, the students have conducted 'Food and Mood' and Mind and Body connection learning experiences, straight from the Resilience Project. The Year 8 leaders provided students in TA the chance to try foods that boost their moods. The students provided the kids with the following foods:
- Yoghurt
- Berries
- Granola
- Dark Chocolate
Students are starting to make the connection how certain nutrients have been linked to promoting positive emotions and overall mental well-being. These are as follows:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds and walnuts, omega-3s are associated with reduced inflammation and improved mood regulation.
- Vitamin D: Sunlight and foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy and mushrooms provide Vitamin D, which is linked to mood regulation and reducing the risk of depression.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, legumes and vegetables are sources of complex carbohydrates that promote the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood stabilisation.
- Antioxidants: Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially benefiting mood.
- Impact of sugar and processed foods: Consuming excessive sugar and heavily processed foods has been associated with negative mood outcomes. These foods can lead to energy crashes and fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which might contribute to irritability, mood swings and fatigue.
- Mindful eating and emotional well-being: Practicing mindful eating involves paying close attention to the flavors, textures and sensations of each bite. This approach not only enhances the dining experience but also encourages a healthier relationship with food, potentially reducing emotional eating and promoting self-awareness.
- Personalised nutrition and mood: It's important to note that the relationship between food and mood can vary from person to person. Genetic factors, gut microbiota composition and individual sensitivities can influence how specific foods impact an individual's emotional well-being.
As teachers, we can't stress how important it is for students to eat prior to attending school. From the research discussed above, it's evident the benefits that foods can provide our students, especially when it comes to enhancing their mood and their concentration levels.
Keep an eye out for what the students are preparing in TA in a fortnight!
The 5-8 netball is definitely heating up! The Year 8 teams are in the lead at the moment, but I am not surprised to see how well the Years 5/6 and 7 teams are playing. Some players are incredibly quick!
Have a wonderful fortnight, hopefully the sun continues to shine like it has been!
Corey Carver and Anthony Poppa
5-8 Community Leaders