Wellbeing Week Highlights

During Week 7, our school celebrated Wellbeing Week with a variety of activities aimed at promoting the importance of looking after our mental, emotional, social, and physical health. Wellbeing is a key focus for our school community, as we recognise that students who feel connected, balanced, and supported are better able to engage in their learning and thrive. Our Year 10 Wellbeing class played a significant role in organising and running a fantastic range of lunchtime activities designed to bring students together in fun and inclusive ways. Events throughout the week included student versus teacher basketball and kick tennis, cookie decorating, a colouring-in competition, primary games, craft activities, karaoke and dance, as well as a mufti day and BBQ. It was a great opportunity for students of all year groups to participate, connect with others, and enjoy a positive, vibrant atmosphere across the school.

Connection Club

Connection Club has been running in the Library Green Room each fortnight on Tuesdays at Break 1. It is a relaxed space for students to come together and play board games, eat some yummy snacks, and meet other students. Connection Club is open to all students from Years 7 -12 and is facilitated by members of the Wellbeing Team, School Counsellors Rachel Davies and Cherie Martin, and Beyond the Gates Caseworker Kristie Monaghan.

We get lots of regulars coming back to Connection Club each fortnight and most of the students who come along are in Year 8, as well as a few students in Years 7, 9 and 12. We would love for more students in other year groups who are looking for something fun to do in their breaks to join us.

We play a range of different card and board games, but “Tapple” is the most popular by far. We have been pleased to hear some positive feedback recently from some of our students telling us they have made new friendships with students they met at Connection Club. This is what Connection Club is all about!

Blazing Belles and Resistance Training Year 7 & 8

Our PDHPE department has been working in partnership with the University of Newcastle to provide more opportunities for students to engage in physical activity during the school day. The first initiative to come from this collaboration is "Blazing Belles," a program designed to offer a safe, supportive, and fun environment for girls to be active during their break times. Held every Tuesday during Break 1 in the school hall, Blazing Belles gives girls access to a variety of activities of their choice, encouraging movement, connection, and confidence. The program has already proven to be highly successful, with a noticeable increase in participation and a positive impact on the wellbeing of our female students. Blazing Belles will continue throughout the year, and we encourage all girls to come along, get active, and enjoy the benefits of being part of this fantastic initiative.

In conjunction with the success of Blazing Belles, the PDHPE department has recently introduced a Resistance Training initiative specifically for Year 7 and 8 students. This program is designed to help students develop an understanding of the basic principles of resistance training and the many benefits it can have on their overall fitness and wellbeing. The sessions focus on teaching correct techniques, promoting safe exercise habits, and encouraging students to build their strength and confidence in a supportive environment. Held every Thursday during Break 1 in the hall, the program offers a fun and engaging way for students to get active, learn new skills, and improve their physical fitness. All Year 7 and 8 students are encouraged to join in for 20 minutes of fun, movement, and personal growth

Hail Mary Running Group  

On Tuesday afternoons from 3:10 – 3:45pm students are invited to join our Hail Mary Running Group. Lace up and come run with us! Every Tuesday after school, Miss Koch and Miss Madden are leading the Hail Mary Running Group and everyone’s welcome, no matter your pace or experience.

We’ve been having a blast running around Medowie, and it’s a great way to clear your head, get moving, and hang out with mates. 

Running helps with fitness, focus, and stress PLUS it just feels good to finish the day strong and a great wellbeing activity.

Come join the fun, bring a friend - you might surprise yourself!

Wellbeing Tools and Agencies for Parents 

There are a range of normal distress responses that your child or young person might display during times of trauma or anxiety. One of the most effective ways to support them is by staying connected, engaged, and available for open communication. During these times, children need comfort, reassurance, and consistent support to help them feel safe and secure. It’s important they know they are being looked after by the adults around them. Attached are a number of helpful resources that provide access to community support networks, as well as practical tools and strategies you can use when discussing wellbeing with your child. These resources are here to assist you in supporting your child’s emotional health during challenging times.

United in Mercy,

Wellbeing Team