Wellbeing

 To this point in the year we have experienced many challenges and the impact of being in and out of restrictions has forced our school community to move into remote learning. What we have noticed is that our community has only grown stronger, more connected and more resilient than ever. It is because of this that our children and young people have continued to find ways to engage with each other through various online platforms. 

Throughout the term our staff and young people have remained agile in their outlook from both an academic and wellbeing perspective. It has been such a privilege to watch as our College community has shown initiative and compassion in finding ways to support their peers, and to walk alongside their teachers. COVID-19 may have taken us away from school grounds, but it certainly hasn’t weakened the resolve of the College. We look forward to welcoming our young people back to school next term and working in partnership with families to ensure this transition is a smooth and positive experience. A reminder that there are a number of wellbeing initiatives available through the College via our social media platforms and these resources are also shared directly with our students via email.

Under this year’s theme of ‘Putting children first’ the College has invited all of our key stakeholders to look at how they can prioritise the children and young people in their lives and our community and to engage in National Child Protection Week – as individuals, and as part of families, organisations, communities and society.

Putting children first means prioritising the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. To grow up well children need to feel safe and loved, have a chance to play and explore, have a say in decisions that affect them, and access to essential things like food, shelter and healthcare. 

For children to thrive we need to come together as a community and put children’s needs first during National Child Protection Week and every week. 

This year has been a challenging year for everyone and circumstances have made it even more important for us all to stay connected and, for those who are able, and willing to support the children and young people that we spend much of our time with. By not only educating ourselves but supporting our students to understand how and when to support someone by having an R U OK? conversation we are putting them first. We can also support them in developing an awareness of what to do if they’re not OK.

If you feel like something’s not quite the same with someone you know – there’s something going on in their life or you notice a change in what they’re saying or doing - trust that gut instinct and take the time to ask them “R U OK?” If someone says they’re not OK, make time to listen, encourage action and check in. You don’t have to be an expert to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK. By knowing what to say you can help someone feel supported and access appropriate help before they’re in crisis, which can make a really positive difference to their life.

Use these four steps and have a conversation that may save a life:

1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen 
3. Encourage Action 
4. Check In

 So, as we conclude Term 3 with all its challenges, the wellbeing team would like to thank families for their ongoing commitment and persistence and for putting wellbeing at the centre of this remote learning experience. We celebrate the resilience learnt and the capacity built and cheer on families who have partnered with us so graciously. And for all of our Year 12 students: congratulations for a term well done, you are nearly there, so keep your eye on the finish line.

Take care and rest well.