Tena Koutou katoa, it has been another busy term and it is hard to believe we are at the end of Term 3. We are currently in the middle of mental health awareness week with the focus for 2022 being “reconnect” – it emphasises the importance of connection as human beings. Teachers and students have been busy incorporating well-being into the curriculum and making mental health visible in the classroom. I would encourage you to use the school holiday to reconnect with your teen and check-in on how they’re tracking. It can often be difficult to connect with our teens but don’t give up, this is the time they need you more than ever. Take them out individually or do something you wouldn’t normally do with them.
Our peer support programme continues to play a significant role in connecting our junior students within the college and developing their knowledge of Sancta Maria College values. The peer support programmes are finishing the term with a Year 7 Sing Off today that all the classes have been preparing for. The Travellers Programme has been well received by the students and will be coming to completion. The Seasons programme has also been coming in to school and working with our students on adjusting to life’s challenges.
Our junior students were involved in a presentation by Life Education called Behind the Scenes, looking at the growing trend of vaping. The students thoroughly enjoyed the drama presentation that highlighted the risks of vaping and also looked at the importance of holding true to our values when faced with pressures during our teenage years.
Online behaviour and safety continue to be a challenge for parents with their teens. The holidays are a great time to do a review of your teen’s online use and behaviour. It’s important to stay connected with what they are doing online. Here are some videos that touch on some key areas:
- Live Streaming: Understand the risks for children
- BEDROOM, BATHROOM, PAJAMAS
- HOW TO DEAL WITH ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
Our guidance counsellors are also available to support the students currently. If you feel your child needs support during the holidays please use the support listed below:
National helplines
Emergency Dial 111
You can get support through your Doctor/General Practitioner
Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP).
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO).
Healthline – 0800 611 116
Samaritans – 0800 726 666
Mental Health Foundation
Community Support
Catholic Social Service – 09 378 9650
Parish Contact Details:
OLSOS – 09 534 8710
St Marks – 09 5769759
St Lukes – 09 358 4750
Nga Mihi,
Ben Bacon
