Penney’s work with our 2023 cohort. Later in the year, Year 9 students explored kindness, gratitude, and the dynamics of friendships, differentiating between friends and frenemies, bullying, bystanding, and healthy friendships. Year 10 students have delved into brain development and emotional awareness, exploring Dan Siegel’s research on the adolescent brain. They have honed their emotional regulation skills, learnt various breathing techniques, and explored the importance of empathy and compassion in fostering healthy relationships. In Year 11, character strengths and growth mindsets have taken centre stage, with students embracing Dr Carol Dweck's work. This year's curriculum also emphasised mental health, helping students recognise and differentiate between flourishing, languishing, and depletion, both in themselves and others. The horizons of the Years 12–13 MANifesto programmes have expanded. Weekly meetings focus on wellbeing, character strengths, mindfulness, and now extend to in- depth discussions on relationships, positive sexuality, and the transition to adulthood. The importance of sleep has also been a recurring theme, with discussions ranging from the science of sleep to establishing healthy morning and evening routines. Guest speakers from diverse fields significantly contributed to the wellbeing journey of both our students and community by offering
invaluable insights and perspectives. Dr Tessie Opie kick-started the year, addressing our Years 12–13 students on positive sexuality and healthy relationships. Her expertise extended to working with our staff, particularly our Physical Education and Wellbeing teams, to establish a shared language on these crucial topics within our school community. Later in the year, mental health advocate and Voices of Hope co- founder Jazz Thornton shared her impactful story and insights at a parent education event, warmly received by our parent community. Dr Nick Penney continued his valuable work, conducting a Mindfulness Programme for staff in Term 2 and a well-attended parent programme that drew eager participation from members of our school community. Beyond the classroom, the Student Wellbeing Committee, under Finn Melhuish’s outstanding leadership, focused on fostering a sense of belonging within the school community. The integration of the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’ into daily school routines was a highlight, especially during the dedicated Wellbeing Week, emphasising connection, learning, mindfulness, activity, and giving back. The Student Wellbeing Committee was also involved in the annual Year 11 Wellbeing Day with St Margaret’s College, hosted this year by our sister school. Our combined Year 11 cohorts engaged in various workshops and sessions focusing on the theme “Getting Comfortable with
the Uncomfortable”, designed to enhance students’ mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Engaging speakers provoked meaningful conversations among the students, followed by reflective sessions to delve deeper into wellbeing topics. In 2023, we hosted the inaugural Whole-School Wellbeing Conference with the theme ‘Cultivating Connections through Community’. Drawing attendees from a range of institutions, the conference welcomed a spectrum of participants representing various educational backgrounds. Notably, attendees hailed from a wide array of institutions, including the Ministry of Education and schools in Auckland, Porirua, Masterton, Hamilton, Napier, Wellington, Wanaka, Christchurch, and their surrounding areas. This diverse gathering fostered an enriching exchange of ideas and experiences,
reflecting the commitment to holistic wellbeing across New
Zealand’s educational landscape. The goal of Wellbeing Education at College remains constant: equipping our students with the emotional and interpersonal skills vital for a resilient and fulfilling life. Our vision is for Christ's College graduates to leave equipped to self-care, forge meaningful connections, face challenges with relevant tools, and thrive in their endeavours, rooted in their values and well-prepared for the future. The seamless integration of our Wellbeing Education curriculum, Parent Education programme, and staff learning opportunities forms a unified, holistic support system for our entire College community, emphasising our dedication to fostering a culture centred on wellbeing. Engaging not only students but also involving parents, whaˉnau, and staff, we create an environment where wellbeing permeates every aspect of school life. We eagerly anticipate the exciting journey ahead in 2024. Caroline Black Director of Wellbeing Education
29
Register 2023 Virtues
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting