We are very blessed to live, not only in Australia but also in one of the most picturesque parts of the country with opportunities to access long sandy surfing beaches, rivers and mountains. At this time of the year, our native flowers are out in bloom and our amazing birds are in full chorus. All of this is perfectly timed for the school holidays and hopefully an easing of restrictions so we can all move away from our screens and get out and enjoy what we have just outside the door.

Staying connected with our students and families is of great importance to the College especially during lockdown. Each day during our remote learning our Sentral records show the vast amount of contact being made between students, parents and teachers. Each interaction trying to support the well being and learning of our students. Since the last newsletter, and to support our Senior students, we have held two online Year meetings, firstly with Year 12 and the other with Year 11. During these events, the focus has been not only on their well being but also to keep them fully informed of updates to do with NESA exams, curriculum requirements as well as Careers and VET news.

As you know our Year 12 students are experiencing their second lockdown. Their pathway through Senior school has been a challenge. This special group of young people have continued to work hard and support each other. To help them push through to the end, the College has put together a care package for each student. Inside the care package are a range of items to help them prepare but also to share, spoil themselves and smile. Thank you to Mrs Lyttle who initiated this project and for all the staff who helped to get the packages and their contents together.

Our Counsellor Naomi Bee has offered the following five points for us all to consider as we continue to live in lockdown.

-        Be kind to yourself

Practise talking to yourself as if you would a friend. Try using positive language.

-        Take control of what you can

Ask yourself what is within your control. Even exercising control over small things like tidying your room or choosing to contact friends can increase your sense of wellbeing.

-        Random acts of kindness

A small gesture of kindness towards others is another way to increase your sense of control. Sending someone a kind message or even giving a compliment can give us a boost, as well as someone else.

-        Self-care activities

Taking even a couple of minutes out of your day for some self-care is still beneficial. Going for a short walk, listening to uplifting music or writing down what has made you happy today can improve how you feel.

-        Stay connected

Maintain connections with family, friends and your College community. These connections can improve your well-being. If you need support, please reach out. There is always someone to talk to.

With our community vaccination rates rising we are all looking forward to being able to return to onsite learning. For some of our students, this return may seem a little daunting and a source of anxiety as they approach reconnecting with their peers and teachers in person. Here are some useful links that explore how parents can support their children to return after Covid lockdown.

https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/I'm-supporting-others/Children-and-young-people/how-to-help-your-teenager-transition-back-to-on-site-learning

https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/returning-normal-after-covid-19

Finally, Harley and Rose are missing you all. Here is a photo of them enjoying the afternoon sunshine.

Wishing everyone a restful break,

Louise Ibbett

Assistant Principal Pastoral Care