Churchill Avenue News - Wellbeing Edition

From the Deputy Principal of Student Wellbeing

Wellbeing is more than a simple feeling of happiness. In Catholic education we speak of "flourishing", this idea that happiness is not enough, that all young people should feel a sense of accomplishment, enjoyment, self-worth and connection.

Our mission in this College is not merely to pursue happiness and avoid sadness, rather, our mission is to ensure every young person flourishes. We work for them to enjoy a safe and respectful learning environment where they may experience positive emotions. 

We offer a broad range of activities, clubs, teams and events so that they can engage with their peers and community. We nurture strong, professional relationships with our students, and likewise encourage them to forge many friendships. We strive to ensure your child has a sense of purpose and meaning in their learning and future pathways. And lastly, we celebrate achievements and rejoice in somebody accomplishing their best.

Jesus said, "I have come that they may life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10). This encapsulates our vision for every young person, that they may flourish in our College community, becoming the best they are called to be. Happy, safe, respected and achieving their full potential.

Tristan O'Brien
Acting Deputy Principal, Student Wellbeing

From our CTK Campus Director

At Christ the King, student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. We foster an environment where each student feels safe, valued, and empowered to flourish in all areas of their school life. Identifying and managing various stressors is essential to ensure students are confident and supported to participate fully in daily school life.

The wellbeing of our students has been supported all year through dedicated learner mentor programs, which are tailored for each cohort to address the themes that arise amongst students as the year progresses. Some of the themes addressed this year to support student wellbeing include personal resilience, emotional regulation, body image and online safety.

To continue with this work, throughout the next few weeks at Christ the King each cohort of students will be addressed by our counsellors and social workers with a specific presentation designed to focus on the current needs identified for each group. Whether it be how to manage evolving friendships, academic stressors ahead of examinations, or positive self-talk, learnings, strategies and advice will be provided to equip the students with the wellbeing tools they need to reach the end of the year whilst thriving.

As a school we ask for students to embrace all interactions with Respect, Engagement and in a Safe manner. We believe that through this simple request, and embedding this language into our everyday conversations, students are provided with the tools to self-reflect on areas of personal improvement and are provided opportunities to learn from current and past interactions.

By continuing to prioritise wellbeing in both structured programs and everyday interactions, we aim to cultivate a school culture where students feel empowered to grow, connect and succeed. This ongoing commitment ensures that every learner is equipped not just for academic achievement, but for lifelong personal and emotional resilience.

Bianca Markovic
Director of Campus, Christ the King

From our SH Campus Director

This term, our Year 12 students concluded their formal classes with a joyful and memorable Celebration Day on Monday 24th October. The day was full of colour, creativity and laughter. Students had inventive costumes and they participated enthusiastically in karaoke performances that showcased some hidden musical talents! It was wonderful to see our students come together one last time as a cohort, celebrating not only their achievements but also the friendships and community they’ve built over six years.

We understand that this time of year can be both exciting and stressful for our senior students as they prepare for exams and the next chapter in their lives. Our wellbeing focus during this period has been on support, balance and connection. Staff have provided additional study sessions, encouragement, and access to wellbeing resources to help students manage their time and emotions effectively. We continue to remind our students that taking care of their mental and emotional wellbeing is just as important as academic preparation.

For our Year 11 and 10 students, this term is also a time of transition and reflection. With SACs completed, they have begun revising for end of year exams. Staff have supported students in developing effective study habits, time management and self-care strategies to help students find a healthy balance between challenging themselves and taking care of themselves and each other.

As exams conclude, both year levels will participate in reflection and transition activities, both of which are opportunities to look back on what they have achieved, recognise areas for growth and prepare positively for 2026. Our wellbeing message is clear: transition can bring uncertainty, but it also brings growth. Staff will continue to encourage and support the students through each of these upcoming experiences.

As we approach the end of the year, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all families for their ongoing support and partnership in nurturing the wellbeing of our students. On behalf of the Sacred Heart Wellbeing Team, we wish everyone a joyful Christmas and a safe and restful holiday period.

Molly Coyne
Director of Campus, Sacred Heart

From our SJ Campus Director

Term 4 has started with great energy and enthusiasm across the St John’s Campus. The students have settled back into routines quickly and are already working hard to complete the final stage of the school year.

The last few weeks has seen the beginning of the Year 8 Learning Mentor Group Camps, an exciting opportunity for students to challenge themselves, strengthen friendships, and develop new skills outside the classroom. We wish all Year 8 students and staff a rewarding and memorable experience as they enjoy time away together.

Across all year levels, students are now preparing for end-of-semester exams and finalising their last few assessments. It’s been encouraging to see the focus, effort, and commitment shown by so many students as they work towards achieving their personal best. Teachers are continuing to support students with revision, feedback, and guidance to ensure they finish the year successfully.

Our SACCAS sport program is also in full swing, with a large number of boys proudly representing the College across a range of sports. Their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship has been excellent, and we commend all who are taking part in training and competition.

Overall, there is a strong sense of purpose and positivity around the campus. Classrooms are filled with productive learning, and students are demonstrating great maturity as they look ahead to the final weeks of the year. We look forward to celebrating their achievements as the term continues.

Tony Muller
Director of Campus, St John's