From the Deputy Principal

College communication 

We encourage open and timely communication at St Mary's College as we recognise this is the best way to build strong, positive relationships. To receive the most effective and timely response to a query, parents and carers are asked to use the following communication flowchart when directing their communication within the College. 

The flowchart outlines the order in which staff at the College should be contacted for academic and/or pastoral matters concerning your child. 

PILLARS update 

Each edition of The Fountain newsletter provides an opportunity to share components of the PILLARS program. This week, the Year 10 students had an opportunity to understand their own and others’ character strengths which are seen as a pathway to wellbeing.   

'Character strengths are the psychological ingredients for displaying human goodness and they serve as pathways for developing a life of greater virtue. While personality is the summary of our entire psychological makeup, character strengths are the positive components – what’s best in you.’—Values in Action (VIA) Institute, 2014. 

Students were provided with the opportunity to participate in a Values in Action (VIA) Character Strengths Taxonomy survey. Research shows that using individual character strengths in new and different ways leads to improved wellbeing. We also know that it’s possible to nurture our strengths by focusing on a character strength and endeavouring to action it on a more regular basis. 

SCHOOLTV: SPECIAL REPORT - The Wellbeing Barometer 2023

'It is important for parents and caregivers to continue to build relationships, foster connections, enable understanding and break down barriers as they navigate a pathway towards better mental health and wellbeing for young people.'—SchoolTV

We are seeking parent and carer participation in a short survey conducted by SchoolTV that is intended to act as a barometer to help gauge the state of student wellbeing within the community. The information gathered in this survey will enable St Mary’s College to focus on key issues and highlight where further assistance may be required. You are asked to base your responses on observations made in the past 12 months. 

With mental health concerns on the rise, it is evident that many young people may need some extra support, and parents and carers play a vital role in enabling a child’s ability to thrive. 

There are two surveys available, which can be accessed online via the links below. Parents and carers are encouraged to complete either one or both of the surveys, depending on the age of your children and the school they attend.

Responses remain anonymous and will only be reported on an aggregated basis. By working together, we can continue to build relationships, foster connections, enable understanding and break down barriers as we navigate a pathway towards better mental health and wellbeing for all students.  

Caroline Wilson-Haffenden 

Deputy Principal