As we finish our eighth week of remote learning and enter the last couple of weeks of Term Three, our Pastoral and Wellbeing teams have continued their work with regards to supporting students in their learning and wellbeing. Earlier today, each year group conducted a range of activities that addressed both the regular flow of our school year, the added challenges thrown at us by Covid and the patterns emerging from our fortnightly Wellbeing Surveys that we have conducted throughout the term. As such, an overview of today’s pastoral activities were:

• Year 12: Year group Zoom to provide an update on the latest HSC status, presentations by staff associated with motivation, feedback and reflection - important at this stage as students are receiving results of final HSC assessments conducted over the past couple of weeks
• Year 11: Meeting with newly elected members of the 2022 SRC and time for revision and preparation for their final assessments in weeks 9 & 10
• Year 10: Pastoral Zooms which addressed issues such as motivation, organisation and preparation for upcoming assessment tasks
• Year 9: Pastoral Trivia competition
• Year 8: A mindfulness Meditation exercise and time for students to catch up on work
• Year 7: A continued focus on self-confidence and self care from last week

Thanks to all Year Coordinators, Assistants and Pastoral Advisors who prepared resources and conducted these activities.

For those who may be aware, there has been a recent focus from the NSW Government and Health with respect to issues relating to Mental Health as a consequence of our extended period of remote learning and lockdown restrictions. The NSW Chief Psychiatrist, Dr Murray Wright, has spoken at a number of the Premier’s briefings over the past few weeks gto raise awareness of these concerns and to reassure people that it is an important issue that is considered when decisions are made pertaining to the introduction or easing of restrictions. ABC News conducted an interview with Dr  Wright some weeks ago, which is available here NSW Chief Psychiatrist  ABC News Interview  for those who may be interested in listening to his advice.

Whilst on the topic of Mental Health, Mr Lo Cascio has mentioned in his section a valuable resource that has been produced by CEDoW and CatholicCare which addresses some of the facts, signs, symptoms and supports that are available for those within our community who may be concerned about friends or family during this time. Click on the links below to access.

CEDoW Parent Webinar promotion clip 30 seconds

CEDoW Parent Webinar: Supporting Your Teen's Mental Health 40 minutes. 

 Finally, a reminder that next Thursday, September 9 is RUOK Day. This year has obviously brought with it some additional dimensions in terms of Mental Health issues and awareness and has the theme Are they really OK? Ask them today.

As per usual, thanks again for your ongoing support throughout the term to date. Please do not hesitate to contact the College should you require any support with your son or daughter’s learning and wellbeing.

Mr Simon Huntly
Pastoral Care and Wellbeing Coordinator