Community
Based on a belief that students learn best when they feel a sense of belonging, there are specific programs which aim to build a sense of community within the school. These are co-ordinated by the school’d Student Wellbeing Leader, who is supported by a team of professionals.
Peer Support
This program involves Year 11 students, who receive specialised training towards the end of Year 10. These students are easily identified around the school by their Peer Support badges and become a focus fof support for the Year 7 students. Peer support leaders are involved with Year 7 students on their first days at high school. Later, they work with small groups promoting school engagement, running activities and peer mediation. The Peer Support students work closely with our Student Wellbeing Coordinator.
Year 7 Anti Bullying Program
This program is entitled “Respect” and is facilitated through the Manningham YMCA. The program runs early in the year, with all students participating in 4-6 sessions over a 6 week period. Students discuss and are guided in implementing behaviours that best model respect in the school and wider community. The program recognises individual differences and focuses on positive contributions to our community. Run in 1 session a week for over a month, all Year 9 students participate.
Year 9 Tolerance Program
This program has been successfully run over many years. Lead by experienced youth workers, it aims to highlight and promote tolerant behaviours throughout the community
Year 11 Mental Health Program
This program is offered to all Year 11 students and generally runs in Term 3. Students are made aware of the signs of mental illness and are advised to seek support for themselves, or friends that may be having problems, particularly over the stressful VCE years. Strategies to ensure support are highlighted and students are encouraged to work together in promoting their colleagues wellbeing.
Other programs are formed and function at various times, as the Student Wellbeing Leader identifies specific needs of various groups. Some of these programs include:
- Young Women’s Group (Year 8)
- Quit Program
- Young Men’s Camp (Year 9)
- Student Leadership Group
- Media Appreciation Group
- Year 7 Boy’s Camp
- VCE Support Group
