Student Achievement

Turning an experience of trauma into a gift to others

On the evening of 29th August this year, Year 9 student Jonathan, witnessed something that would change his life.

Driving home at 9.45pm, Jonathan witnessed a speeding vehicle running a red light and colliding and killing a 20 year old university student at a pedestrian crossing.

Jonathan was the sole witness to this fatality.

As one would expect, Jonathan experienced a range of emotions and trauma after witnessing such tragedy.

Jonathan engaged in weekly counselling sessions, recognising that he needed to process and unpack the trauma experienced. Jonathan, who is an excellent discus thrower, also channelled his emotions and thoughts into the discus.

Jonathan felt a strong conviction that he wanted something good and redeeming to come from this tragedy. He put together a workshop, that he has now presented to the four Year 9 classes.

In his workshop, Jonathan explains trauma, and his own journey through his experience. His workshops are designed to help others, on how they can manage trauma in their lives. He tells boys it’s ok to ask for help, and shares his own experiences.

Furthermore, he shares with his peers what a precious gift, life is.  In a heartfelt way he encourages his peers to live life well, in the knowledge of our mortality.

On behalf of the school, I express my pride at Jonathan’s courage and vulnerability, to not only journey through his own experiences of trauma, but to turn these experiences into something that is life-giving to others.

Congratulations Jonathan.

George Vlamakis

Student Counsellor