RETURNING TO SCHOOL IN WEEK 3

Due to the constantly evolving state of the world at the moment and the numerous decisions being made by the Federal and State Governments regarding health and safety and schooling, we are in a constant state of change and flux. For some, this may not pose much of a challenge, however, for others, these changes may result in additional pressure in relationships, behaviour and decreased attitudes toward schooling. 

I wanted to take this opportunity to reiterate what I said in my assembly address toward the end of Term 1; We are here for you, we will get through this together as a united school community. 

As such, I wanted to restate the support for yourselves and your child, or young person in your care, while at home or on school grounds.

• Pastoral Support: Our support processes and systems have not changed. If needed, please do not hesitate to reach out to your young person’s PALS teacher, subject teacher, Year Coordinator, or myself (Pastoral Care Coordinator). 

• At school: When at school, students may access these support services in person. Whether it be seeing a PALS teacher in person or accessing support via the student foyer or focus zone, the support is here!

• At home: Support can be reached via a phone call or email to the front office who will then put you in contact with the relevant people. Alternatively, students can access support on their own by contacting the relevant staff member via email. Students and their families may also use the numbers listed on the Helping Hands Card below for support via external services. 

• Pastoral Care Support Worker: We also have the ability to support families with our Pastoral Care Support worker, Mr Greg Daniels. Mr Daniels has already been in contact with quite a few families, offering assistance, connecting families to additional support services or simply offering a gentle, listening ear. Mr Daniels can also be contacted through the front office. 

• Counselling: Students still have access to counselling. While caseloads are quite full, please feel free to speak with your son/daughter or person in your care’s Year Coordinator or PALS teacher about their mental health needs. We will then complete an online counsellor referral and one of our amazing CatholicCare Counsellors will be in touch. 

In addition to these supports, I have attached a great article by Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, and one of Australia’s leading parenting educators that identifies some practical ways to ‘Maintain kids’ mental health during the Coronavirus Pandemic’. Click here to access this article.

Please take care of yourselves and each other and do not hesitate to reach out for support!

Pastoral Care Coordinator