AUSTRALIAN SECTOR

LA SALLE SISTERS

LA SALLE SISTERS - A DREAM FOR POOR CHILDREN

Authors: Br Ambrose Payne /Br Gary Wilson

Three religious sisters, unknown to many Lasallians, live, work and study in multicultural Bankstown, N.S.W. They are establishing themselves, in their community house, and ministering to young children in a functioning Child Care Centre. The La Salle Sisters Theresa, Anna and Theresa- are members of a Sai Gon, Vietnam Congregation, more than fifty years old. It is an expression of the Lasallian charism (Spirit-gift to the Church).

The brave move to Australia happened over ten years ago. The Sisters are somewhat global too, having missions in Bangkok, San Jose California, Houston Texas and Cambodia. In their home country there are 150 plus Sisters working mainly in early childhood education. Their focus has been, similar to the De La Salle Brothers, who started schools for the marginalised youth of France. One core concern in Vietnam is the education of ethnic and poor minority children, who are quite numerous, who have little schooling or who drop out from attending.

Coming to Australia posed several difficulties. A key one was learning English, and then getting professional qualifications in order to run pre-school or child care centres. Then there was finding suitable employment, as they did not have their own functioning centre. And of course, there was the need for permanent residency visas. The Brothers have given strong financial support, to the stage where the Sisters now earn wages.

Staying the course so far has seen the Sisters gaining recognition as an Australian-working religious congregation. In March 2021, a successful hurdle was passed: they are now an incorporated ‘association’ which can own property etc. A happy endpoint will be achieving registration as a ‘Charity’ with the Australian Not-for-Profit and Charities Commission in the near future.

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200 YEARS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION IN AUSTRALIA

Author: Cathnews (edited)

The celebrations marked 200 years since the first official Catholic school opened in Parramatta in October 1820. Masses were held with school representation in most cathedrals across Australia, as well as a number of individual parishes and schools.

National Catholic Education executive director, Jacinta Collins, said the National Mass, held on the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians, was a highlight of the bicentenary year.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison provided a message of congratulations…recognising the contribution of Catholic Education to Australian life:

“Two hundred years ago, Fr John Therry answered the call to educate the youth of Parramatta. From that small beginning of 31 students began a great work that now spans 1755 schools, 100,000 staff and 777,000 school students.

“From Xavier Catholic College, Wurrumiyanga in our most north, to Sacred Heart Catholic School, Geeveston in our south; to St Mary’s Star of the Sea, Carnarvon in the west, to St Finbarr’s, Byron Bay in the east; and to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, Alice Springs in our red centre, Australia’s Catholic Schools cover the breadth of our country. Over 200 years, your schools, preschools and now universities, have transformed Australia through the millions of lives you have influenced.”

Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP said: “We in Catholic education are determined to make an even greater contribution to the lives of our young people, families, church and society.”

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ST MICHAEL’S COLLEGE, ADELAIDE

ST MICHAEL’S COLLEGE WELCOMES ITS FIRST CO-EDUCATION RECEPTION COHORT

Author: Olivia Peressin, Communications & Community Relations Coordinator, St Michael’s College

In 2019, St Michael’s College formally announced commencement of co-education at the Primary Campus in 2021. This exciting initiative was based on the evolving history of co-education at the College and to meet the needs of current and future families, enhancing the strong sense of community engagement across the College.

Sixty-five years ago, the De La Salle Brothers were invited by the Archbishop of Adelaide to provide an additional, quality Catholic education option in the Western suburbs, to meet the needs of the growing population. St Michael’s College was opened with just 29 boys at inception… (There was) a second campus at Henley Beach in 1967, then welcoming girls in the early 70s to undertake their final year of schooling: evolution is the backbone of the College’s spirit.

The shift to co-education was momentous not just within the College, but in wider society. It signaled changing times. The years that followed saw the Year 8 cohort become co-educational in 2008, and the College welcomed 272 new Year 7 students to a secondary education in 2019. The next progression of this story was the development of a R 12 co-educational model which reflects a world in which women and men collaborate, work, live, lead and succeed as equals.

On 27 January 2021 the next chapter in the history of St Michael’s College was written, as the College welcomed the newest members of the community to the Primary Campus, the first Reception co-education cohort. Nineteen old scholars’ children form part of the Class of 2033 cohort. Here’s what some had to say: “I have two daughters and it was always my intention to send them to the Secondary Campus the week we found out that St Michael’s was going co-ed in 2021 we enrolled immediately and were delighted to accept the offer.” David Sorby (Class of 1991)…

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“My time at St Michael’s played a huge role as to why we enrolled Ella, it has always been a great school, one which three generations of our family have attended. I think the thing that has meant the most to me are the friendships I still have from school… going on 35 + years (now), even though we have all been spread out all over the country.” Adam Nicks (Class of 1993)

“I think going co-educational was a brilliant decision and I’m very supportive of this. I have a younger daughter, and my wife and I have always wanted our children to go to the same school...” Steve Hatsitsopanidis (Class of 2001) …

Nerves and excitement filled the brand new Early Primary Centre, as students met their teachers and classmates for the first time...As they embark on their thirteen-year journey at St Michael’s College, we look forward to seeing these young people explore their curiosities, flourish and fully realise their potential.

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A NEW AND IMPROVED EARLY PRIMARY, INNOVATION AND ART CENTRE

Author: John Foley, Principal, St Michael’s College, Adelaide

The Early Primary, Innovation and Art Centre was officially opened by Mrs. Marie Dorrington OAM, Chair of the St Michael’s College, Adelaide Board on Tuesday 23rd March 2021. Student MC Alex Slattery welcomed our special guests, including Brother Visitor David Hawke FSC, St Michael’s College Board Members, Old Scholars, in particular those from the original class of 1954, past leaders of the Primary campus Mr David Hine and Mr Shaun Fitzpatrick, old scholar. (Also present were) Member for Cheltenham Mr Joe Szakacs, representatives from the building industry who oversaw this magnificent development, and representatives from Catholic Education South Australia. (Finally, there were)… staff and students, particularly the girls and boys from the first-ever Reception classes.

My own welcome included a brief history of the St Michael’s Primary campus and the evolution of co-education at the College, as well as recognition to Damian Patton and Dominic Lo Basso for their project leadership, Marie Dorrington for her determination in ensuring the scope of the design was centered around quality education, and our key project partners, Edge Architects and Sarah Constructions.

The formal celebration then commenced with a beautiful liturgy held outside in the Innovation Centre Courtyard, presided by Fr Paul Cashen, who holds a special connection with the College, being one of the original 29 boys who started at Beverley in 1954. The liturgy included a presentation of symbols which were presented by the Reception classes and included a VR headset, power tools, dinosaur, robot, sustainability project models and candles….(symbols) for inspiring young minds…The candles represented the theme of “Let your light shine”.

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In officially opening the new facility, Marie reflected on the exciting extension and expansive renovation, as well as the beginning of co-education within it. She expressed her awe, gratitude and overwhelming faith in the future of St Michael’s as a Catholic school in the Lasallian tradition providing her personal experience as a grandmother at the College. She proudly observed that her grandson knows he is “part of an inclusive and respectful community where he feels known, valued and cared for; he is aware that the positive learning culture of the College is authentic, challenging and supportive; and he is conscious his is ‘a quality Lasallian education, inspired by the Gospel and a concern for social justice’, where students are ‘empowered to better choose who they become as people, learners and leaders in the world’.

…Marie shared that due to ongoing collaboration, co-operation, commitment and much dialogue, the College facilities are now increasingly able to cater for the educational demands of our ever-changing world. It was a particular pleasure to also have Br David Hawke FSC to assist in the unveiling of the plaque, and to provide some heartfelt concluding words…

We are looking forward to the Stage 2 development and the ongoing evolution of co-education which will see St Michael’s College become a fully co-educational school across R 12 by 2027.

PINO DICHIERA: CREATIVE SPACES MAKE QUALITY EDUCATION

Who better to design an imaginative school for little people than an Old Boy who made cardboard houses and tracks for model cars in his youth? Pino Dichiera, of Edge Architects was engaged by St. Michael’s College Adelaide, to design the refurbished and expanded Beverley site as an Early Primary, Innovation and Art Centre. It was successfully created and opened on 23 March 2021. The new Centre marks the initiation of a Reception cohort for St. Michael’s, in its evolution into a fully co-educational R to 12 school by 2027.

Pino, eldest of five boys, grew up in a traditional first-generation Italian household in the western suburbs of Adelaide. After primary school, St. Michael’s Adelaide was an easy choice as the closest Catholic school, being only a 5-minute bike-ride from his home.

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As Pino recalls, “My experience was nothing but positive, making life-long friendships which are still going strong today. In fact, we have our own regular reunions which constantly gets 10-12 of us recounting our stories of our school times. I was heavily involved in school sport as well as being a College leader”.

This Lasallian formation included several teachers. One outstanding influence was “Mr Lyn Martin, recently deceased: he was an “incredible teacher, sports coach and outstanding man. Teaching us morals and persistence, his sporting prowess and coaching traits also taught us to never give up his strong Catholic faith always being foremost in his teachings”.

Another strong influence was Br. Paul Rogers, Principal at the time, in terms of guidance and support. Pino remembers also as “great blokes”, as well as great teachers Br. Alf Zoanetti, Br. Brian Sharkey and Br. Geoff Kennewell. Their heavy involvement in many activities, including sport exemplified the Brothers’ teaching philosophy of holistic education, with strong pastoral care, what Pino describes as teaching being “relate-able to young adolescents”.

Architecture was an early love for Pino, and after graduating from the University of S.A., his career branched over design of hospitals, offices and sports stadia, before settling on a specialty in master planning and design of educational works. With the challenge of the 1959 two-storey Beverley building, Pino’s Edge Architects (with Sarah Constructions) adapted to produce open and visual connections, with external nature play and teaching areas. There are “reading caves and quiet learning booths for student-centred learning”.

Noting the College’s passion for new technologies in its teaching, Pino’s team rebuilt the Library into an “Innovation Centre” with specialist STEM-based areas, AV-integrated space, gathering places, discussion and independent study points- “also known as caves, watering holes and campfires” importing nature into the built environment!

Outside work, Pino maintains a life-healthy balance: he follows sports avidly, having been an American Football player and coach. Family, maintaining friendships and arranging get-togethers with “St.

Mick’s” friends are part of the agenda as well.

Connecting people in life is often built on early in schools, where teachers inspire the young, and appositely at St. Michael’s: to think and create in great designed buildings, like the modernistic Early Primary, Innovation and Art Centre.

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SMCA LASALLIAN WINS TOP HOSPITALITY SCHOLARSHIP ST MICHAEL’S COLLEGE PRIMARY CAMPUS VIRTUAL TOUR

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O’CONNOR CATHOLIC COLLEGE, ARMIDALE

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DE LA SALLE COLLEGE, ASHFIELD

THE LASALLIAN CHARISM ALIVE AT DLS ASHFIELD

Author: Paul Forrester, Principal, De La Salle College Ashfield

Jesus put a parable before the crowds, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the biggest shrub of all and becomes a tree so that the birds of the air come and shelter in its branches”. (Matthew 13:31-33)

Our La Salle Week celebrations were truly an inspiring example of the beautiful community we have here at De La Salle Ashfield. A week of fun, reflection and celebration was highlighted for me, by the incredible generosity of our community, in supporting outreach initiatives that embody the spirit of the Lasallian charism that we celebrated throughout the week. The College donated over 800 personal items to the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal and raised $5,000 for our twin Lasallian school in Pakistan at our MAD (Mission in Action Day).

The spirit of the Lasallian charism is so alive in the College, as was evident by our Founder’s Day Mass, which included 10 De La Salle Brothers, Old Boys, parents and special guests from Oakhill College staff and student community, who joined us on the day.

As part of my reflection, I have included an extract from my address, which reflects my feelings on the legacy of the De La Salle Brothers, and the 200 years of Catholic education that we celebrate in Australia this year. “It would be easy for me to espouse the incredible impact and achievements of Catholic education over the last 200 years, but I believe no Prime Minister, scientific achievement, engineering feat, famous piece of art or music are as important as the relationships we have with people we meet in our Catholic schools. I believe Saint John Baptist de La Salle knew this; Father John Therry and Saint Mary Mackillop knew this. The De La Salle Brothers here today who have committed their entire lives to this adventure we know as Catholic education know this: I believe that is why they are here - to continue to be in relationship with us, this wonderful school community, and all those who are part of it.

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You see they know this because they listen to Christ, and this is what Jesus asks of all of us. Jesus’ life was dedicated to being in life-giving relationships with all he met, regardless of whether they were priests or prostitutes, doctors or lepers, legionnaires or criminals. He came that we may have life, and have it to the full. He told us how to do this with the greatest commandment – ‘Love one another as I have loved you’.

For over 340 years, Lasallian education, and for 200 years, Catholic education in Australia, have been built on the relationships that have developed between those whose love of Christ and of each other has been prepared to overcome the most significant barriers and hurdles to ensure we sit here today with the benefit of an incredible Catholic education. We are the beautiful branches of the majestic mustard tree. I am truly humbled to be a part of it.”

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TWENTY-TWO LASALLIAN YOUTH LEADERS APPOINTED AT DLS ASHFIELD

Author: De La Salle College, Ashfield

At a recent College Assembly, De La Salle College Ashfield Year 11 Lasallian Youth Leaders (LYL’s) for 2021 were presented with their badges. These students applied to become LYL’s in Term 4 2020 (Year 10,) and after interviews and training days, 22 of them have been selected to this senior leadership role in the College. LYL’s are required to promote the Lasallian charism of the College, and be role models to all other students at all times. They work closely with Dean Betsos, Lasallian Youth Minister, and are called upon to represent the College frequently throughout the year. Their first duty was to help facilitate the Year 7 Lasallian Induction Day on 2 March. Next, they will be called upon to assist the College in a variety of ways at the Open Night on Wednesday 24 March. There are many meetings and events throughout the year that LYL’s need to attend to represent the College, both on site and at various other venues.

Congratulations to the following students on being selected as the College LYL’s for 2021 - Alessio Parisi, Jonas Cook, Nicholas Toia, Jake Parisi, Brenden Knight, Yuhan Jin, Ryan Chiam, Gianluca Aliberto, Stefan Kilic, John Elbeaini, Jerome Sassine, Mark Espiritu- Moran, David Berridge, Marcello Aliberto, Jarrod Mendonca, Joseph Succar, Samuel Soo, Jacob Farrugia, Joseph Gatto, Sebastian Migliaccio, Joseph Boutros, Alessandro Binaggia

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LA SALLE CATHOLIC COLLEGE, BANKSTOWN

GIRLS IN TRADE

The Year 10 girls from La Salle Catholic College Bankstown participated in a ‘Girls in Trade Day’ with two other associated schools. At this event, students heard first-hand about careers in trade from several outstanding female “tradies”.

Students could hear how each of the women tradies established their careers by studying a VET trade course at school, or by gaining work experience, that led to a full-time apprenticeship, followed by movement in various leadership positions.

The Year 10 girls were given the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities, including a 2-way electrical wiring system, light testing and the advantages of copper tools.

Staff at La Salle Bankstown were excited by the positive reaction of the girls to the day, and hope to see some of the participants choosing these VET subjects and career options in the future.

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DE LA SALLE COLLEGE, CARINGBAH

DE LA SALLE CARINGBAH MAKES A DIFFERENCE

‘Clean Up Australia Day’ started thirty years ago by an “average Australian bloke” who had a simple idea to make a difference in his own backyard. Over the years, approximately 18.3 million Australians have donated 36 million hours, clearing over 380,000 ute loads of rubbish. Today’ Clean Up Australia Day’ inspires and empowers communities to clean up, fix up and conserve the environment.

De La Salle College Caringbah recently took part in the nation’s largest community-based environmental event. A busload of young men from De La Salle Caringbah used their God-given hands to clean up the environment at Gunnamatta Park in Sydney. (In 1861 Gunnamatta Park consisted of 300 acres and was reserved for ‘Military Uses’; since then, the land has been subdivided, and 14 areas are now available for public use).

Zach O’Hara, Social Justice Leader at De La Salle Caringbah, stated, “We at De La Salle aim to reach out and help the community we live in, as often as we can. ‘Clean up Australia Day’ was a great way to do so.” The De La boys also participated in a ‘Graffiti Removal Day’, celebrated on 28 March 2021. Graffiti vandalism costs the NSW Government and residents more than $300 million every year. The aim of ‘Graffiti Removal Day’ is to highlight the problem of graffiti across NSW, and encourage people to volunteer their time to remove and prevent graffiti. Since ‘Graffiti Removal Day’ was established in 2012, volunteers have removed 141,000sqm of graffiti, saving the community approximately $10.40 million.

Angela Porra, Leader of Religious Education at De La Salle Caringbah, said, “Coming together as a Lasallian family and spending time together assisted not only the environment but also our growth as individuals. I was thankful to attend, and give back and pay gratitude to the land I live on. During Lent this year, we as a College have been challenged to return the favours our world does for us, in non-materialistic ways – to give alms, not just money. I ask you - what can you do?’”

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GOLDEN GUITAR AWARDED TO DLS CARINGBAH MUSIC TEACHER

Mr Luke O’Shea, Music teacher at De La Salle College Caringbah, recently won two Golden Guitars at the 2021 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Luke won the Heritage Song of the Year award for the song ‘Happy Australia Day’, which was written and performed with Kamileroi man, Mr Kevin Bennett.

The song and video were designed to be used as teacher resources to provide students with a new and valuable perspective of Australia’s shared history. Through learning about the past, Mr O’Shea’s belief is that we can better understand our current divided situation, and that this can then hopefully help us make more informed decisions that can unify us in the future.

His second award was for the ‘Traditional Country Album of the Year’ for his album ‘There In The Ochre’.

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PASTORAL LESSON USING RECYCLED GARBAGE

Authors: Angela Porro Religious Education Coordinator, & Mr Michael Beaton,De La Salle Catholic College, Caringbah

I am constantly at awe to be part of the community at Caringbah - the Lasallian spirit is always alive. Congratulations to the students of Benildus 3, and Mr Beaton for a fabulous artwork (on recycling garbage). At De La Salle Catholic College, Caringbah, we had a unique opportunity to create the spirit of St John Baptist de La Salle in an art form, using recycled garbage, that was collected by our College Leaders. We were given a piece of plywood, and a bag of recycled material, to use in a 1-hour lesson; the artwork had to reflect the spirit of De La Salle. In the Benildus 3 homeroom, I proposed to the students to do a portrait of De La Salle. We chose a portrait with De La Salle holding a red book and traced the outline on the plywood. Then we started to use the recycled material to fill in the portrait. The class did an excellent job as shown by the finished product.

The students also had to write a small blurb to go with the artwork and the following are three examples; “By building St John Baptist from recycled material, we had the experience and opportunity to create something from the ground up like St John Baptist did with the schools.”

“By sculpting St John Baptist out of recycled materials, we have demonstrated the De La spirit by commending the Founder of our spectacular school system.”

“Any tool, any object, can be used to create learning opportunities. De La Salle inspired us to create a recycled portrait of him.”

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OAKHILL COLLEGE, CASTLE HILL

TOGETHER WE STAND STRONGER! OAKHILL COLLEGE RAISE $5,300 FOR LASALLIANS IN BEIRUT

Following the devastating explosion in Beirut, Oakhill College Castle Hill, organised fundraising activities to assist Lasallian schools. It raised over $5,300.00 to help with the cleanup and replacement of vital teaching aids and equipment.

Elliott Prasad, one of our Lasallian Captains, has produced a video to show our solidarity and support for our brother and sister schools. This has been sent to our Lasallian schools in Lebanon Mont La Salle, Notre Dame, De La Salle, Ecole St Vincent de Paul.

Click HERE to view the video.

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RESPECT @ OAKHILL

Oakhill College, Castle Hill, continue their 2021 theme of ‘Respect’. Vice Captains Elizabeth Kitcher and James Houseman spoke to students at a recent Assembly about each letter in this powerful word which creates meaning and installs actions: “R” relationships we have for each other “E” esteem and honour we have for someone or something “S” safe College environment “P” parents, peers, friends and family “E” engaged and challenged to be respectful “C” consideration and understanding for individuals and groups in our society “T” to be in a supported and safe environment.

They encouraged our community to continue to strive and Think, Give, Get Respect inside and outside of Oakhill.

To solidify the students’ message the Year 9 and 12 leaders have collaborated to make an inspirational video on how respect affects everyone and benefits the community.

Click HERE to view the video.

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DE LA SALLE COLLEGE, MALVERN

RECOGNISING DE LA SALLE WOMEN AT MALVERN

Author: Kerry Martin, editor of About: Roll Call Alumni Magazine, De La Salle College, Malvern

This year the women on staff at the College celebrated International Women’s Day with a breakfast in the PAC at Tiverton. Among the guests were three women, who collectively have taught at the College for more than 100 years.

In 1981, Christine Thompson (nee Andrews) and Clare Kennedy-Curtis (nee Kennedy) arrived at the College; a year later Jacinta Ryan (nee de Vries) joined them. Working at the junior school, now Tiverton, the three women have made an enormous contribution to the education of literally thousands of young men who have passed through the College since then. Roll Call is proud to share some of their reflections with our readers.

Christine Thompson started her career at the College in 1981 as a Year 7 classroom teacher. Now the Humanities Learning Area Team Leader and VCE History Revolutions ‘guru’, Thompson has seen a lot of change during her tenure, especially in the opportunities for women.

“The difference now is that female staff feel more empowered and confident to apply for leadership roles, whereas this was not the case years ago.”

“There are more opportunities available for women to access leadership positions and we are encouraged to apply when positions become vacant.”

As well as her reputation as a respected teacher and colleague, Thompson was been instrumental in supporting many of the College’s social justice initiatives. Along with her husband, and fellow long-term staff member at De La Salle College, Charles Thompson, whom she met in 1981 at the College, the pair embody everything that is Lasallian. Mrs. Thompson was one of the people who developed offshore social justice opportunities for students.

“A trip to the Philippines in 1986, opened my eyes to the possibilities for our young men to contribute to a world far outside their comfortable lives in Melbourne.”

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Subsequently, she alongside a dedicated group of teachers who, along with Br Denis Loft (1965), established the annual Year 12 volunteer program in India. She participated in four trips to India, known as ‘Coolies.’ “Participating in the Coolies program was nothing short of amazing. Observing our young men come to terms with conditions so very different to their own and working to improve the living and learning conditions of the students at these De La Salle partner schools was so rewarding.”

As she approaches her 40th year on staff, Thompson said it is the ethos and spirit of the De La Salle College community which has compelled her to stay.

“The atmosphere in the College, both amongst staff and the students, and the Lasallian ethos passed on by the Brothers, is something I value and believe enables us all to lead the students during their journey here to develop into fine men.”

Clare Kennedy-Curtis also joined the College in 1981 as a full-time Teacher/Librarian working at the Tiverton Campus. She still works in the library, and teaches primary classes, VCAL Literacy and is a dedicated St Edwin’s House Mentor.

As well as her role as a teacher/librarian, over the last 39 years she has channelled her energies to improving the welfare of students through a range of cocurricular activities, committees, overseas excursions, camps, retreats and the sporting life of the College. She rates managing the 2nd XVIII as a career highlight.

Over the years she has seen the change to the balance of women on staff. “If anything has changed over the years it is the better balance between men and women on staff, and I have felt very fortunate to be a woman on staff at De La Salle, because I have simply felt very much a part of a community,” she said.

“There are more opportunities for women to take up positions of leadership and this balance can only be of benefit to the students. I can confidently say a healthier balance will continue to empower these young men.” “When I started, De La Salle was full of nurturing, intellectual men, professional and empathetic women, and the humour and dedication shared by all staff was magical.”

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LA SALLE CATHOLIC COLLEGE, MIDDLE SWAN

WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING A MIDDLE SWAN?

Author: Natalie Quinn

Year 11s touching hearts for cancer research

Our Year 11 students and a number of staff members participated in the annual ‘Relay For Life’ for the Cancer Council of Western Australia (WA).

‘Relay For Life’ is a fun and overnight experience that raises vital funds for cancer research, prevention, information, and support services. The event also celebrates local cancer survivors and helps to raise money to help save more lives.

Our students were challenged to keep the College baton moving around the running track at WA Athletics Stadium in Mount Claremont for 24 hours without a break. They were successful in this task, even when it required getting up in the early hours of the morning to complete their allocated one-hour shift. We are incredibly proud of the way our students represented themselves and the College. These efforts exceeded our College fundraising goal, contributing almost $3,000 to cancer research in Western Australia. It was a fun and memorable experience for our students. Everyone went home very tired, but satisfied that we had followed closely in the footsteps of St John Baptist de La Salle in ‘Touching Hearts’ by serving those in need in our community.

Thank you to all those involved, particularly the staff members who generously gave their time to supervise this worthwhile community event.

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Make a Difference (MAD) DAY

On Friday 14 May, our students and staff celebrated MAD Day, a significant day in the Life of La Salle College. It is the day we celebrate our founder, St John Baptist de La Salle.

The aim of the day is to think about ‘the least, last and lost’ - and through our actions focus on service to others, as well as raising funds through stalls and activities, to support those in our community that need a helping hand.

The money raised will go to the Archbishop’s ‘LifeLink Appeal’ to support those in need in our local community, and the Lasallian Foundation. This year our twinned school in Pakistan, Sant Singh Wala, needs a toilet block and water tank, and so the Foundation will finance that project. We recognise that people do not just need financial assistance, but actions can improve the lives of others. Our MAD Day had a strong emphasis on ‘service to others’ and was a fantastic day for our school community to come together to work as one for others.

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ST BEDE’S COLLEGE, MENTONE

LET’S CONNECT! - ST. BEDE’S TWO CAMPUSES FROM 2021

From this school year, St. James College East Bentleigh and St. Bede’s College Mentone are amalgamating, the result of 18 months of planning. Both sharing the Lasallian heritage from 1970 and 1938 respectively, their decision, announced by the St. Bede’s College Board Chair, Mr. Anthony Brinkley and the Principal, Mr. John Finn, was signed and celebrated in a liturgy on January 27 2021 at St. Bede’s.

Forming possibly the largest secondary school in Victoria, the ‘new’ St. Bede’s footprint will gradually offer expanded opportunities for students ‘broadened pathways’ - for the wide backgrounds and talents of boys in south-eastern Melbourne. Already, and historically, the majority of Year 10 boys from East Bentleigh transition into their final two years at Mentone. The senior level at St. Bede’s has some of the widest curricula offerings in the state, with VET, sports, music, speaking & drama prominent. In addition, the future offers the shared expertise of many more teachers, and several integrated areas of administration and pastoral care.

There has been a Steering Committee harnessing the process of joining together. One College Board with appropriate representation and expertise, reflective of the amalgamation will exist. Current staffing, enrolment criteria and curricula will continue at both campuses, with a strong recommendation required re future curriculum provision and any changes to student fees. Parent, staff, student and Old Boy consultations will take place this year, as the changes are embedded more in the future. The St. Bede’s school uniform will be worn by all Year 7 2022 boys for the first time. Mr. Stephen Pooley is the St. James campus Deputy Principal.

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John Finn, the Principal, pointed out that as pilgrims who invest in the future, we Lasallians are grateful “for the vision of the Brothers”, and the imitation of John Baptist de La Salle who constantly travelled France, in his concern for broadening education for all youth. He noted, at the ceremony, the profile of youth entering adulthood: by 2030 there will be more insecurity in employment, marriages ending on average after six years, and so changed needs for today’s youth searching for confidence, health, and a moral compass. An expanded St. Bede’s College, with its Lasallian educational principles, looks to the overall health of each young person.

To watch the ceremony click HERE

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POST COVID LEARNING AT ST BEDE’S

Author: Brenden Mair, Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning, St Bede’s College Mentone

It is with interest that I once again write in response to the challenge that 2020 presented. As a school, we continue to see the impacts, which I will elaborate on. However, we also recognise that these challenges are not ours alone, but rather exist across the educational landscape. I share these with you in order to give you an insight, and perhaps prompt conversation with your children, that might help them to make sense of where we are at this moment.

We recently received some information at the school that highlighted the impact that the pandemic had on learning and it made for interesting reading. The NAB Education Insight Report focused on the effects coronavirus has had on students in 70 schools across Australia. It was interesting to see that where relevant, statistics were differentiated between Victoria (which obviously had a longer lockdown) and other states.

Of particular note were increases in anxiety as a result, with the highlight indicating that about 2 in 3 boys experienced anxiety as a result of the pandemic. This will have obviously impacted on learning. There was also concern expressed about interpersonal, cognitive, critical thinking and communication skills. Nevertheless, there were also some positives highlighted. Particularly for the students, their increased skills in self-directed learning and mastering of digital skills was noted. As teachers, we are encouraged to capitalise on these as they will be beneficial in the long term.

From a teacher perspective, it was noted that there is a sharper focus on teaching ‘what really mattered’, as well as a feeling of greater appreciation from parents, regarding what we do in the classroom.

Anecdotally, we are certainly seeing something of a lasting effect here at the College. Slightly shorter attention spans for students and increased need for refocusing appears to be presenting itself, with a re-socialisation approach needed in this regard. Acknowledging that this will take some time, it does not present a significant issue. On the flip side, a greater appreciation of a face-to-face environment is apparent for both teachers and students, with the students relishing being back in the classroom.

Re-adjusting to the rigours of being back on site are not something any of us should take for granted. As parents, it may well be wise to have a conversation regarding the challenges that this presents, and you may get some useful insights that better support your sons in their learning. We are always open to insights and look forward to working with you, to enable learning for all students into the future.

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HELPING THEM LEARN AND GROW FROM THEIR DIFFICULTIES

Author: George Vlamakis, Student Counsellor, St James College East Bentleigh

A parent’s attitude to their child’s difficulties will heavily determine how successfully the child will meet and overcome many of the obstacles and hurdles that will come their way.

Whether it is missing out on a sports team, frustrations with classmates or teachers, or having to do a task they find unpleasant, our students/children will experience difficulties they need to overcome.

When children overcome problems and deal with unpleasant situations, they learn they are capable. This is the basis of self-esteem and confidence. Resilience is fostered when they overcome problems, and manage unpleasant social situations, such as teasing. If we over-protect our children from challenging experiences we rob them of chances to learn, develop and grow.

Resilient teens look back and draw on skills and understandings they have developed in the past to help then deal with present challenges. For example, I have had the experience of a 16-year-old boy who revealed how his time on school camp, helped him overcome the homesickness he experienced on a six-month student exchange.

He remembered how on the first day of camp, he did not think he could make it, but he did. He experienced those same doubts early in his exchange, but he knew that just as he had coped before, he could do so again, but this time in more difficult circumstances. He was drawing on the same resources.

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Here are five great parenting ideas to help your sons leapfrog the inevitable challenges that come up in life.

Frame the problem as a challenge

Frame the difficulty as a challenge rather than a problem. Framing it as a challenge, gives them something to rise to, rather than be overwhelmed.

Coach them to do well

Talk them through their challenges, giving them ideas to cope and manage. Consider rehearsing some skills or language that they may need.

Show confidence they will succeed

Make sure your expectations are realistic, positive and supportive of their feelings

Give them a chance

Allow them to approach challenges in their own way without constantly checking on them. Your nervousness can be contagious.

Celebrate their success

Even if they were only partially successful, praise their efforts. Praise is a far greater influence than criticism.

The attitude and approach of parents and teachers will influence our children’s ability to meet and overcome the hurdles they’ll encounter.

An attitude that is affirming, supportive, but not smothering, will resource your child to meet and overcome life’s inevitable challenges

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JAMES SHEAHAN CATHOLIC COLLEGE, ORANGE

AMAZING MONTH @ JAMES SHEAHAN ORANGE

Author: Mr. Bill Rollo, Year 10 Co-ordinator / Br. Gary Wilson

“Amazing month of May.... The Jindabyne outdoor education trip was a highlight, and most likely (will) be a talking point for many years, (and) the retreat that was held later in the month. In both instances, I have seen personal growth in many students, which will set them up well for senior years.

“The purpose of running the camp is to extend and challenge students as a whole. They had the opportunity to strengthen bonds with other students in the year group, and provide students with challenges, and the chance to grow in a completely different environment.

“The weather at the start dampened some spirits, but saw the groups work together to overcome adversity.

By the end of camp, the cohesiveness of each group showed through with strong-team building activities and a sense of belonging. (A major highlight) was seeing a group summit (of) Mount Kosciuszko, and later reflecting on the trek. When first asked about this, most students used negative language to describe the trek. A few wise words (were offered) about working together, making the summit as a team, supporting each other, sharing the experience, overcoming the same challenges. The group at the end of camp reflected that the trek was the most worthwhile and best part of the camp.

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They had the opportunity to strengthen bonds with other students in the year group, and provide students with challenges, and the chance to grow in a completely different environment.

“The second (highlight) was watching a student learn how to ride a bicycle. This student was (very unsure and fearful). With support from the wonderful ALI staff and teacher/parent support, this student not only was able to ride, but enthusiastically take on mountain biking obstacle courses. Magic moments!

“A special thank you to parents that attended and supported the students on that week. If it wasn’t for the support of the parents, camps like this would be nearly impossible to run.’

The following week saw the Year 10 Retreat conducted by Sebastian Duhau, Br Arian, and Maddy Forde of the Youth Ministry Team of the District. With them as leaders were Bathurst Diocese Youth Ministers Bec Geddes (based at James Sheahan, Orange) and Winston Neville (based at La Salle Academy, Lithgow). (The following day they facilitated the Year 8 retreat day on the theme “I am courageous”).

As Mr. Rollo commented: “This was a wonderful opportunity for Year 10 to gather together again on the back of the Jindabyne experience. The theme for the day was ‘Service, Opportunity, Sacrifice SOS’. The day engaged the students with thought-provoking discussion and the opportunity to share ideas. The level of maturity and willingness to actively take part in the day was wonderful to see”.

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DE LA SALLE COLLEGE, REVESBY

ANNOUNCEMENT: RETIREMENT OF TIM LOGUE

Author: Merv McCormack Executive Director of the Lasallian Mission Council.

Mr Tim Logue will retire at the end of 2021 after 11 years of dedicated leadership as Principal of De La Salle College, Revesby. His service to Catholic education will have covered 44 years. It is a momentous time, and one which calls for grateful celebration of a loyal and committed man.

Memories of Tim will be as varied as the thousands of teachers, students and parents with whom he has journeyed over those years. For this writer, recollections of Tim will be of the unfailingly positive colleague who invariably sought the best outcomes for those entrusted to his care. Never one for the limelight or personal acclamation, Tim was the most grounded of leaders. His interest was in making a difference in the lives of others, never for achieving laurels for himself.

Tim’s challenge of others was motivated by what was best for them. In others, he saw potential they did not see in themselves. For the College, he wanted the best. Lasallians would speak of his zeal. In an increasingly complex educational milieu,

Tim’s leadership was straightforward and unfussy, accompanied by his wonderful sense of humour. He took his work seriously, but not himself. He wanted high quality teaching and learning, superior pastoral care, and the best possible school facilities. He wanted a Lasallian school where people were welcomed and respected. He led the way in achieving these things.

Tim always believed that every boy deserved a compassionate hearing. In a previous career working with Tim, I asked favours for places where boys needed fresh starts. Tim never hesitated- “of course”, would be his standard response, “let’s see what possible”. He intuitively grasped St John Baptist De La Salle’s words:

To be entrusted with the teaching of the young is a great gift and grace of God.

Tim, to you and Kerrie, go with our heartfelt thanks and very best wishes for a wonderful retirement with the family which means so much to you. What a loyal and long serving Principal and friend you have been.

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SOUTHERN CROSS CATHOLIC COLLEGE, SCARBOROUGH

CELEBRATING HERITAGE IN A BIG WAY - SOUTHERN CROSS SCARBOROUGH

Australia, the Land of the Southern Cross, is a huge country, but it values community even over vast distances. Huge is the Catholic and Lasallian-associated school, Southern Cross Catholic College Scarborough (SSCC). It operates on the Redcliffe peninsula, on the outskirts of Brisbane. June 4 this year saw the celebration of its multiple traditions, embedded in four extraordinary Christians who established Catholic schools in Queensland.

Each year, on or near the solemnity of Mary, Help of Christians, Southern Cross Catholic College has its ‘Patron’s Day’. It is an important day, as the one occasion in the year when the Primary campuses at Woody Point, Kippa Ring and Scarborough join with the Scarborough Secondary campus for festivities. The older students adopt the ethos of being ‘big brothers and sisters’ to the younger cohorts.

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It began, as usual, with the total community Mass. Including students, staff and parents, there were nearly 2000 people in attendance at the liturgy. Then came the dynamics of building community further. Majella Thompson, SSCC Communications, describes the energy and downright fun of the day:

“Prep to Year 3 (classes)... took part in fun games on the oval, including building sand-castles with some specially-delivered sand. Years 4-12 took part in the ‘De La Dash’ a fun run around the secondary campus. Years 4-6 then took part in a dancing competition and the Secondary Campus got involved in the legendary ‘High Beam’ talent show where House competed against House to win the overall ‘Patron’s Day Cup’ (points were gained for participation, by coming a place in the ‘De La Dash’ and participation in ‘High Beam’). The winning house this year was Delany”.

The four ‘traditions’ which are reflected in the four Houses show the origins of Catholic education, Redcliffe style. A true legend in Scarborough was Monsignor Bart Frawley (1904 - 2002), Parish Priest, who invited the first De La Salle Brothers to come to his parish in 1955, supporting the three Brothers financially in a generous way (He became an Affiliated Member of the Brothers’ Institute). Eighty-two boys were taught in a reconditioned army hut that year. The second ‘founder’ and charism was thus St. John Baptist de La Salle. The third was the Brigidine Sisters’ founder, Irish Bishop Daniel Delaney, whose sisters conducted secondary Soubirous College. The last founder was Australia’s St. Mary MacKillop whose Josephite Sisters taught in the primary schools on the peninsula.

Mr. Chris Campbell, the Principal commented:

“Patron’s Day is a day to celebrate our history and our present. We unite to reflect on our Patron, Mary Help of Christians, the Mother of the Catholic community in Australia, and our four founders. We also reflect on our theme for the year ‘You are part of the miracle’. We are all a part of the miracle of Southern Cross Catholic College.”

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OPENING MASS AND INAUGURATION OF STUDENT LEADERS

Author: Ms. Vanessa Hall, A.P.R.E

“On Friday 5th February, the students from Year 7 to Year 12 at Southern Cross Catholic College, Scarborough, gathered in the College Community Centre to celebrate our Opening Mass and inauguration of student leaders. The Mass was led by our Parish Priest, Father Bob Harwood, and our Year 12 Student Leaders shared the readings and prayers, that focused on our 2021 Lasallian theme, “You Are Part Of The Miracle”. The student Liturgy Band led the music with great passion and skill, after spending much of their own time rehearsing in the week before Opening Mass. Following our Mass we took time to bless our Year 12 student cohort for 2021, and recognise the Year 12 Student Leaders who play such an important role in our whole College community, from Prep to Year 12. The Student Leaders for 2021 are:

• College Captains: Kerryn Hamilton-Smith and Ethan McLeary • Lasallian Prefects: Shaun Rath and Charlotte Grant • House Captains: Kayla Nutley, Ava van Bladel, Alana Smith, Claudia Colbert, Mikayla Quirk, Joshua

Millwood, Georgia Cullen and Elise Hodges

Following the investiture of the 2021 Student Leaders our College Captains, Kerryn and Ethan, addressed the community. They shared their vision of leadership for SCCC community, and made strong connections to our theme for 2021. Their speech captured what it is to be a Catholic community in the Lasallian tradition and some of their words are below:

The Lasallian theme for 2021 is ‘You Are Part of The Miracle’. At Southern Cross Catholic College, we aim to embrace each other’s differences, by accepting everyone’s uniqueness. Through acceptance, we come to acknowledge that we are all part of the same community for our own purpose.

We all hold greatness inside each one of us: it is how we let it shine out that builds the foundation of living Jesus’ miracle. The Lasallian vision is seeing the abundance where others see scarcity, and bringing nourishment when there is none. As part of the Southern Cross community, we encourage a sense of belonging, to look out for each other, as brothers and sisters.

Your vision will differ from the person beside you; your passion will differ from the person beside you; your future will differ from the person beside you. But at the end of the day, you are all part of the miracle. So, remember, what you do in the present will shape who you are in the future.

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INDIGENOUS IMMERSION OPENS STUDENTS’ EYES

Author: Br Rick Gaffney FSC

An opportunity of a lifetime was provided to students from Southern Cross Catholic College, Redcliffe, when they took part in an immersion to learn about local indigenous history and engage in indigenous culture. Cherbourg is visited each year as a place of indigenous historical significance.

Eighteen Year 10 and 11 student volunteers spent 29-31 March 2021 as a part of the annual College Cherbourg and Barambah Cultural Immersion. The College, across all streams of the curriculum, is committed to its journey to strive for excellence in Indigenous Education through heightening cultural identity, maintaining high expectations, promoting active leadership, and building strong community relationships. The Brisbane Catholic Education’s Molum Sabe Indigenous Education Strategy aims, in addition, to bridge the gap in learning achievement and exceed learning expectations for each Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learner in the BCE community of schools.

Br Rick Gaffney, Program Leader of the College “Garanyali Unit”, said:

“Cherbourg is the largest Aboriginal community in south-east Queensland, and it is the place where the Queensland government forcibly removed Aboriginal people from all over Queensland and New South Wales. The Aboriginal community there has established the Ration Shed Museum which has interactive displays, educating about its history, and the contribution of Aboriginal people since the late 1800s.”

Displays also highlight the injustices experienced by the Aboriginal people of the area as a result of the Aboriginal Protection Acts, which were enforced from the 1890s through to the 1960s.

The final two days of the immersion were spent at the Barambah Environmental Education Centre, located in the Barambah State Forest. There, students learned how local Aboriginal people in the area used to live. Activities experienced included identifying and tasting bush food from the forest; viewing Aboriginal art painting and culture; seeing boomerang and spear throwing. There was also star gazing and learning aboriginal names and stories linked to the stars, clearing the forest of noxious weeds, and reflective prayer and “Dadirri” an Aboriginal mediation activity.

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Br Rick said the immersion opens students’ eyes, both indigenous and non-indigenous, to the history of the region. “This is a unique experience for our students, one that very few Queenslanders have the opportunity to be a part of. Our students gain a greater awareness and appreciation of Aboriginal culture and experiences over the last 50,000 years,” he said. “Students also greatly increase their understanding of the suffering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who for hundreds of years had their basic human rights denied to them after the arrival of the Europeans.”

Year 11 indigenous student, Haley Ashton-Stark, was grateful for the experience of a lifetime:

“I have learnt so much about the history of my culture and the triumphs of my culture as well,” Haley said. A visit to the Ration Shed Museum might seem boring at first but once you take a closer look, you find all the hidden stories about the past. It makes you think how far the nation has come in creating peace for the indigenous population. I walked away from this camp knowing more about the tools, stories and traditions of my culture and that is something that I will take with me forever.”

After returning to school, students work together to find ways to share their understanding and experience with others in their cohort, aiming to bridge the gap, instill respect and value diversity.

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YOURTOWN

YOURTOWN - WITH YOUTH, FOR YOUTH NATIONALLY

A unique multi-faceted part of the Lasallian District, as well as a well-regarded professional charity, is Yourtown, based in Brisbane. With non-denominational programs and services at both a national and local level, it helps young people and families to improve their lives in a multitude of ways. With over 600 staff of counsellors, youth workers, indigenous mentors, vocational/trades trainers, employment consultants, child & family workers and policy writers, it is a proud network of services. These are financed through art unions and donor support, and some funded partnerships with government and businesses.

The vision articulated by yourtown, is to transform especially young peoples’ lives, and to strengthen communities they and adults live in. This encapsulates the core of the Lasallian mission - to enable young people, especially those who are marginalised and without voice to be educated and skilled for life. Looking to answer the educational, training and welfare needs of young people has been the ‘business’, the mission of the De La Salle Brothers and their Partners for 340 years.

The agency first opened its doors as “BoysTown” in 1961. when the De La Salle Brothers set up a Queensland-based residential school and home for youth, largely referred from the courts. With a working farm and later a cattle stud, it branched into outreach programs, and by 1991 to Kids Helpline. Evolution in the organisation changed many things - the services delivered, and the way it interacted inclusively with the community.

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The 2016 name-change and philosophy reflect the modern professional world yourtown is embedded in. (In terms of governance, yourtown is an incorporated entity, with an independent board, under the ownership of the Brothers’ Institute.)

The number of services delivered are astounding. They include education, mentoring, counselling, vocational and trades training, job seeking, family crisis intervention and associated programs for marginalised youth and parents. Social, personal psychological and economic issues often demand help in re-engaging people in the community whatever their race, gender or situation.

Inclusivity and Community are strongly valued at yourtown, and are reflective of its original growth in the 1960’s on. Education and engagement are central to all service programs. This fits neatly with the value of Quality Education & Learning. Brothers and Lasallian institutions have always prided themselves on this professional outcome. Concomitantly, the varied sectors of yourtown staff find and build strong bonds with youth and sometimes parents, becoming sister and brother role-models as they work together. An underlying result is what could be termed a Family-style Association of Lasallians. Over the years large numbers of yourtown staff have shared in Lasallian in-service / formation, in their stories of Service/ Work for Youth, especially the Disadvantaged.

A shining service achievement has been Kids Helpline (KHL), 30 years old this year. Initiated in a visionary way by Br. Paul Smith, it is a free, private and confidential counselling service for children and young people, and is the sole one, Australia-wide. KHL professionally trains counsellors who are available 24/7 via phone, Web Chat and email. Children and young people can contact the service about anything and for any reason. Known and advertised in all media regularly, KHL answers many thousands of contacts every year about issues like suicide, abuse, domestic and family violence, self-injury and bullying.

Parentline in Queensland and the Northern Territory (Aust.) provides professional counselling, education and support about issues such as parent-child relationships, custody and access, and mental health and emotional wellbeing. In addition, there is face-to-face counselling in many of yourtown services, e.g. the Family Mental Health Program.

A major sector of yourtown is the area of employment & training. There are 23 locations in four states which provide help in job-seeking preparation, search and follow-up. Youth who are unemployed can access skills vocational training, especially in Qld. in six areas and in three other states in Australia. On-the-job experience and skills development are other avenues offered.

I had no work experience and it was hard to get a foot in the door but yourtown helped me with my resume and work-ready skills, and get the job I’m in now. I’m a junior draftsperson and practically jack-of-all-trade s for the company, and I love it.

Mentoring is an important part of all the programs where staff are expected to lead by example, as members of a yourtown community that cares. Services like the Youth Engagement Program include formal mentoring such as literacy tutoring by yourtown volunteers. Other programs include a domestic & family violence

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service, with a specialist accommodation for families in great need in the outer suburbs of Sydney. Another program is conducted in partnership in a “Building Communities Program” in outer Brisbane.

With the heavy burdens for welfare / well-being support experienced by schools, yourtown has expanded into other learning arenas like School-based Traineeships for Indigenous Students, Youth Mental Health intervention, Youth at-risk Support, Youth Offenders Prison Support and early school leavers at high-risk. Primary schools are using at-touch technology to access mental well-being, resilience & help-seeking skills development.

All these services provide a rich information database which yourtown uses in advocacy work in the welfare sector, as well as professional research. This contributes to government enquiries and dissemination of statistics on key youth issues and needs to the general community awareness.

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30 YEARS OF KIDS HELPLINE WITH 8.4 MILLION RESPONSES TO CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Author: Maree Reason-Cain, yourtown Corporate Communications & Media Advisor

The 30-year anniversary of Kids Helpline, the country’s only free, 24/7 online and phone counselling service marks a significant milestone for the service, and decades of support with more than 8.4 million telephone and online contacts responded to over that time.

Kids Helpline took its first call in Brisbane on 25 March 1991. On its first day, 3,200 young people called Kids Helpline, two-and-half years later Kids Helpline was operating as a national service available 24x7 in every Australian state and territory.

Within a year of opening, Kids Helpline had answered 75,000 calls and by 1993, its calls numbered over one million.

Over the last 30 years the top three reasons children and young people sought counselling support are mental health, emotional well-being and family relationships, with more than 500,000 counselling sessions related to mental or emotional health concerns including self-injury, and over 440,000 counselling sessions relating to family relationships,” said CEO Tracy Adams.

According to Ms Adams, Kids Helpline has become a crucial part of the child protection and mental health systems and works to not only support young people, but to normalise the concept of help seeking. The complexity of issues reported to Kids Helpline over the past 30 years has grown substantially, as has the number of children and young people using the service in an ongoing way.

What started as phone service has become so much more with support available via phone, email, webchat, and information and resources available via social media and the website. In recent times the service has also evolved to include KHL@School taking counsellors in primary school classrooms via virtual means, and introduced counsellor moderated peer-to-peer support via MyCircle.

“Having multiple ways to engage, enables children and young people to make contact in ways they feel comfortable with, from anywhere in the country” said Ms Adams.

Whilst 2021 marks a significant milestone for Kids Helpline, the 2020 Kids Helpline Insights Report released today highlights that the service is needed as much today as when it started 30 years ago, with the report highlighting just how challenging 2020 was for many children and young people. Of particular note was the increase in first-time contacts about mental health from younger children in the 5–12-year-old age group; and an increase in Duty of Care emergency interventions.

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The Insights report analyses the issues children and young people raised in counselling sessions with Kids Helpline during 2020, with the effects of the summer bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic putting pressure on the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people.

Kids Helpline received a significant increase in the volume of children and young people seeking help in 2020 - up 20% in 2020 vs 2019, with mental health or emotional wellbeing the most common issue for children and young people with one in four raising these as concerns in counselling sessions.

“Children were particularly vulnerable during 2020 since they rely on parents, schools and friends for support. Many children and young people struggled with changes to their learning environment, and with the impacts the pandemic had on their family life. First-time mental health contacts to Kids Helpline increased 38% in 2020 vs 2019 across all age groups,” Ms Adams said.

Kids Helpline received a significant increase in the volume of children and young people aged 5-9 years of age seeking support during 2020 with an 80% increase compared to the same time in 2019.

“Young people in the 5 12 age group tell us they experience issues ranging from anxiety, problems sleeping, online addiction, anger issues or mood swings through to self-harm, eating disorders, depression and thoughts of suicide.

Tracy Adams said: “Young people’s concerns highlight the need for an ongoing commitment to support their mental health and wellbeing beyond the pandemic so that today’s young people are equipped with the information and tools to manage their mental health early on in their journey to adulthood.”

Kids Helpline has responded to a greater number of children and young people in 2020 across all age cohorts as a direct result of the additional counsellor resourcing of the service. With more 100 additional counsellors recruited over the past 12 months.

In addition to direct support, Kids Helpline holds a unique data set and qualitative information on different issues faced by the children and young people who contact us,” Ms Adams said.

“Many may not realise that Kids Helpline also works as an important public advocate for young people, using non-identifying data we give voice to the concerns, needs and aspirations of your people.

“Kids Helpline continuously listens and seeks to understand youth perspectives. We believe it is an important part of our role to use every means at our disposal to effectively support and promote the protection of young people,” says Ms Adams

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KIDS HELPLINE’S BLACKTOWN HUB CELEBRATES MULTIPLE MILESTONES

Author: Bronnie Taylor, Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women

The Kids Helpline counselling centre in Western Sydney is on track to respond to an extra 18,000 contacts during its first year of operation, thanks to a $5.5 million investment from the NSW Government.

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the Blacktown hub, which employs 30 professional counsellors dedicated to taking calls from children and young adults in NSW, has already responded to 14,528 contacts since its opening in April last year.

“It’s been a really tough year, especially for children and young people, which is why we’re making sure that no matter where they live, support services are ready and available, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Mrs. Taylor said.

“We’re building a safer, stronger NSW and having a bricks and mortar presence in Western Sydney means that Kids Helpline now has a physical hub for creating better local connections with communities and services all across the state.”

Between March and September 2020, Kids Helpline answered 35,403 calls and online chats from children and young people living in NSW, an increase of 33% on the same period last year.

Mrs. Taylor said the increased capacity is also helping ensure children and young people can connect with the same counsellor over a period of time.

“Being able to speak to the same person on the end of the line week in, week out is so important for building that trusted relationship and making that help-seeking behaviour we want to encourage feel really normal,” Mrs. Taylor said.

yourtown CEO Tracy Adams said she looks forward to another year of supporting children and young people. “Kids Helpline is not only celebrating its first year of operation here, we are also celebrating a milestone of 30 years of dedicated service to children and young people,” Ms Adams said.