This past week, our college was awash in yellow, laughter, and connection as students and staff came together to celebrate Wellbeing Week and RUOK? Day. With a focus on mindfulness, gratitude, friendship, and the importance of checking in on one another, our college community embraced the spirit of wellbeing with listening hearts and joyful energy.
Throughout the week, students engaged in lessons and activities designed to nurture mental health and emotional resilience. From practicing mindfulness to sharing moments of gratitude, the emphasis was on building a culture based on our college values of courage, love, empathy, acceptance and resilience.
On Thursday, our college turned golden as students donned yellow to mark RUOK? Day, a national initiative that reminds us all to ask a simple but powerful question: “Are you OK?” The day was filled with meaningful conversations about the importance of reaching out to friends and encouraging them to seek support when needed.
Our Primary students brought infectious joy to the undercover area with a lively RUOK? Day disco at recess. Staff and students danced like no one was watching, filling the air with music, movement, and smiles. It was a beautiful reminder that sometimes, wellbeing starts with letting loose and having fun together.
Over on our Secondary campus, Year 5 and 6 students joined in for a lunchtime BBQ cooked by our Clontarf team, adding a delicious touch to the day. Community organisations including Headspace, Men’s Outreach, and Alive and Kicking Goals ran engaging games and wellbeing activities, sparking conversations and laughter amongst our students.
The school band set the tone with uplifting tunes, and students enjoyed sweet treats like honey joys, lovingly prepared by our talented Food Tech department.
The participation and enthusiasm from our students was nothing short of inspiring. Their openness, kindness, and energy made this week a true celebration of what it means to care for ourselves and each other.
We are grateful to our incredible staff who lead our well-being team! Thanks to our K-12 Director Well Being, Ms Melita, our primary counsellor, Ms Cara, our secondary social worker, Ms Zoe and our prac social worker Ms Hannah. They do an exceptional job supporting our community and we are grateful for you all!
As we wrap up Wellbeing Week, we carry forward the message of RUOK? Day: that a simple question can make a world of difference. Let’s keep asking, listening, and supporting – because at St Mary’s, wellbeing is always in season and listening hearts is at our core!
