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St Leonard's College | Independent School Melbourne

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Your child’s wellbeing is of utmost importance to us. Their health and happiness are crucial for success in school and beyond.

When young people are flourishing, they can fully participate in their learning and take advantage of the numerous opportunities provided at the College.

Our WISE Wellbeing framework fosters holistic development from ELC to Year 12. WISE is a guiding framework used throughout the development of the college¡¯s personal development program, ensuring students are enriched across 4 key domains of wellbeing; Warm Hearts, Inspired Futures, Strong Minds and Engaged Beings. The framework is designed to assist young people to consider others, act with integrity and respect, take direction in their learning and be involved in College life.

Alongside delivering the personal development program, our College mentors and Heads of Year make sure each student is supported individually, helping them get the most out of their time at school.

Our nurturing and supportive College counsellors also work alongside the young people at the College to help them navigate challenging times. They offer counselling services with a focus on flexibility and inclusivity and are key faces around the school.

When young people have a high level of wellbeing we know that they are better equipped to handle life¡¯s challenges and develop meaningful connections in the College community.

Wellbeing Centre

Our Wellbeing Centre resides at the very heart of our College, signifying the importance we place on all aspects of our students’ wellbeing.

In 2023, we inaugurated our dedicated Wellbeing Centre, offering abundant advantages for students by creating a warm and secure atmosphere. This venue is designed to support group activities and peer connections while fostering a nurturing ambience. With a meticulously curated living green wall, this inclusive facility empowers our students to prioritise their wellbeing effectively.

Our wellbeing programs are comprehensive and extend to both students and parents through initiatives such as the Personal Development Program, expert insights from external presenters, and access to the invaluable SchoolTV platform which provides parental support on a wide range of topics. To learn more about these initiatives, click on the links below.

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WISE Wellbeing

From the Early Learning Centre through to Year 12, we foster student wellbeing within a safe and joyful environment.

In 2020 a leading youth psychologist created our WISE wellbeing framework, based on the OECD Future of Education and Skills and the science of positive psychology. The WISE model centres on the idea of student agency and student wellbeing as being central in allowing students to thrive and flourish in educational settings and is seamlessly integrated into the college¡¯s Personal Development Program (PDP).

The WISE Wellbeing Framework brings together core wellbeing themes and integrates them into a common framework. A brief descriptor of each element follows:

WARM Hearts – Nurturing students’ empathy, compassion for others and instil a sense of gratitude within an inclusive school culture.

INSPIRED Futures – Developing independent learners who hold self-efficacy for their learning and can engage in purposeful goal setting. It encourages students to develop their own agency and become an active participant in their learning journey.

STRONG Minds ¨C Fostering a sense of adaptability. Promotes students’ curiosity, both about themselves and others. It is about understanding and developing the capacity to manage emotions in a regulated and healthy way.

ENGAGED Beings ¨C Promoting active engagement in academic classes, cocurricular activities, leadership roles and healthy and respectful relationships leads to an increased sense of belonging for students.

The success of this program is attributed to the dedication of our College mentors, Heads of Year, Deputy Heads of Year, teaching staff, cocurricular programs, counsellors, and the implementation of extensive wellbeing initiatives and guest speakers across the College.

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Mentor Program

Each child at St Leonard’s College is known, nurtured and loved; supported by their mentors to thrive in all aspects.

At ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ we are geared towards empowering every student to reach their full potential. Recognising that each student holds unique talents, interests, experiences, and learning styles.

A dedicated mentor teacher will guide your child at each stage of their school journey, from orientation to Year 12 exams. Mentors monitor both academic and personal progress, forming strong partnerships with parents. Mentors encourage student self-management, challenge comfort zones, promote positivity and fostering a supportive environment where students can excel.

In the Junior School, our teachers double as mentors, fostering a supportive environment that encourages individual risk-taking and growth. They have a high level of interaction with their students each day and can monitor their progress throughout the year.

Students in Years 5, 6 and Middle School are guided by a mentor specific to each year level. Middle Years mentors hold a special understanding of age and stage development, offering parents support and advice during what can be a tricky and fast changing time for adolescents.

Senior School mentors accompany a student on their journey across Years 10, 11 and 12, fostering a special bond and a high level of individual support throughout their time in the senior years. Senior School mentors conduct regular meetings with students, monitoring stress management and academic performance, they maintain close communication with parents to ensure each student receives personalised support.

Effective mentoring hinges on strong connections between staff, students, and parents. Our mentors understand each student¡¯s individuality, fostering a supportive and personalised approach that enables every ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ student to thrive.

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Counselling Services

Our experienced counselling team, comprised of qualified psychologists registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Registration Authority, provides comprehensive support and resources.

Our counselling team collaborate with students, parents, teaching staff, and mentors to address academic, emotional, and social challenges.

Counselling services cover various areas, including assessments for cognitive and emotional strengths, educational support, assistance with social issues, and guidance on behavioral and emotional concerns.

Additionally, they offer support for family difficulties and special needs, ensuring holistic wellbeing for all students.

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Restorative Practices

Restorative practices aim to assist students to repair connections and acknowledge harms that have been caused. It is about restoring connections and providing time for reflection to improve behaviour.

Restorative practices at the College involve pastoral leaders working with students to help them acknowledge conflict, take responsibility for their actions and find constructive resolutions. Through informal and formal discussions, parties seek agreement to repair harm and prevent future issues.

Our counselling team also helps students communicate effectively, listen actively, and cultivate friendships.

Restorative practices teach students to respect diverse perspectives, treat others respectfully, and support wellbeing through positive behaviour. Overall, we prioritise building a supportive community where conflicts are addressed constructively and relationships are nurtured.

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Chaplaincy

St Leonard’s College welcomes students of all backgrounds and religious beliefs.

Our College Chaplain, Reverend Judith Watkins, offers pastoral care to students, families and staff with a particular focus on supporting the nurture and development of the spiritual dimension. A dedicated Sacred Space is available at the College for conversation and reflection. Inclusive chapels are held during the year, providing opportunities for students to reflect on issues that are relevant to them, through the lens of their own spiritual life, beliefs and values. Whole school chapel services are held for events such as Easter, Christmas and Valedictory.

Our chaplaincy and social action programs encourage our students to contemplate their beliefs and gain valuable insights into the beliefs of others. We explore the significance of religion in a global context.

Through our deep commitment to service and social action, we provide our students with educational experiences and opportunities that enable them to look beyond their own circumstances and engage with the needs of others on a local, national and international level.

Student Reflection

¡° Reflecting on my journey at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ College, it’s remarkable to consider the transformation I¡¯ve undergone. From grappling with anxiety leading to low attendance in Middle School, to stepping into the role of a Year 12 leader in my final year of school.”

In Year 9 my anxiety was a challenging barrier to school. I struggled with fear and unease that made attending school a significant challenge every day. The thought of navigating social interactions, participating in classes and meeting academic expectations often felt overwhelming. Each day was a battle between my desire to succeed, and the anxiety that seemed to hold me back.

However, my experiences at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ College were not solely defined by these struggles. The supportive environment, understanding of my teachers and encouragement from my peers played crucial roles in my gradual transformation. The school¡¯s emphasis on mental health and wellbeing provided a foundation upon which I could slowly rebuild my confidence and attend school. I remember the small victories such as attending class, engaging in group discussions and participating in school events. Each representing a small step forward, but feeling like a monumental achievement, not only to me but to my teachers too.

The turning point came when I started to see the results of my efforts, and the ways in which my resilience was paying off. I began to take on more responsibilities, initially in smaller roles, which gradually evolved into more significant positions. The opportunity to lead and be involved in various school activities not only boosted my confidence, but also helped me channel my energy into positive, productive pursuits. My leadership role was not just a title, but a reflection of my personal growth and the commitment I had made to overcome my challenges.

In retrospect, my time at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ College has been a journey of reflective personal development. The challenges I faced due to anxiety taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking support when needed.

The transition from being a student who struggled with attendance to becoming a school leader signifies not only a personal triumph, but also the power of the supportive community at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ that helped me along the way.

As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned and the strength gained from my experiences at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ, ready to face future challenges with resilience and confidence.

Aliya Trucchi, Year 12

Health and Nutrition

Cafeterias

Our two in-house cafeterias, staffed by a team of experienced caterers, offer a diverse menu, including salads, soups, pastas, sandwiches, and daily specials.

The Middle School cafeteria serves Years 5 to 9 students on school days from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm.

The Senior School cafeteria offers the same services whilst providing a space for senior students to connect, as well as barista-made coffee, which is a favourite amongst staff.

Student lunch orders are placed through the FlexiSchools online portal.

Health Centre

Our Health Centre, staffed by registered nurses, prioritises the physical wellbeing of our students and staff, providing first aid, consultations, medication supervision, emergency care, and referrals.

Our staff also educate and support students dealing with health and social issues, ensuring they can fully participate in class.

For health advice, families can contact the Health Centre by phone or email.