With changes to the normal, predictable routines of next week, we need to be mindful of the impact this may have on our students. Changing routines within just one week can have a significant impact on them. Students thrive on consistency and predictability, as it provides them with a sense of security and stability. When routines are altered, it can disrupt their daily lives and cause feelings of confusion and anxiety. These changes may manifest in various ways, such as altered sleep patterns, changes in mood and behaviour, and difficulties concentrating on tasks. However, it's important to note that change can also be a valuable learning experience for our students. It can teach them adaptability, problem-solving skills, and resilience. As parents and caregivers, you play a crucial role in supporting your child/ren through such transitions, offering reassurance, maintaining open communication, and gradually introducing new routines to help them adjust.

Utilise some time over the weekend to go through the events your child may be involved in the last week of term. Social stories have been created for swimming and the excursions. Speak to your child about what to expect, what they are excited about and what is making them feel a bit wobbly or uncertain. If you find you can not answer all the questions, please check all communication channels where details have been shared or reach out to your child’s teacher for further information.

This week is National Child Protection Week. It aims to engage, educate and empower Australians to understand the complexity of child abuse and neglect and work together to prevent it.
Our bishop of Sale Most Reverend Greg Bennet, when interviewed by Berwick News this week, said schools and parishes in our diocese are undertaking valuable work aimed at keeping children and young people safe.
“As Christians, we believe that every person is created in the image and likeness of God,” he said. “It is our responsibility as a Catholic community to ensure they are valued, respected, and protected. “Everyone has a role in keeping children safe.”
As a school, we continue to engage in professional learning around our Child Safety Site and reviewing our Child Safety Codes of Conduct. This week we are seeking student feedback on our Child Safe Policy. We will be collecting this feedback and reflecting student voice in our response to the ongoing work we are unrelentingly focused on.

Next Thursday is R U OK? Day. R U OK? Day is a meaningful and important initiative that originated in Australia and has since gained global recognition. On this day, each of us is encouraged to reach out to friends, family members, colleagues, and even strangers to ask a simple yet powerful question: "Are you okay?" This question opens up a conversation about mental health and well-being, providing a platform for people to express their feelings and seek support if needed. 

As a school, we are steadfast in our commitment to Student Wellbeing and this is evidenced through our policies, actions and words upholding our Child Safe Standards. Our students and staff will be engaged in learning experiences around how to be a listening legend and the steps to take to truly hear what someone else is saying.
Please find an article by Dr Justin Coulson below outlining details about R U OK? Day and the actions we can take to check in on each other and support our own and others’ mental health.
R U OK?

Kindest regards,
Jen Gulavin
(Deputy Principal: Inclusive Education)