Wellbeing

The Challenges of remote learning, physical distancing, isolation and constant news on COVID cases has impacted all of us within the school community and our society. Much of what has happened throughout 2020 is outside of our control. Not just the virus itself, but all the other aspects of life that might be impacted, from school, sport, work, socialising and travel. We have all coped differently. For many, the isolation, missed opportunities and adventures that take place during a normal school year have been hard to accept, while for others the home learning environment has provided an opportunity to be creative and thrive.

During this time, supporting mental health and wellbeing continues to be a recognised priority at St Kevin’s and across the community. Good mental health and wellbeing allows us to live our life in a positive and meaningful way and cope with life’s changes and challenges.

Throughout the remote learning period, SKC staff across all three campuses have been doing an amazing job reaching out to students to ensure that they are coping during this difficult time. Staff have also been checking in with short surveys, discussions or creating opportunities that help students stay motivated and engaged. This has included lessons based on themes such mindfulness, gratitude, positive coping skills, social connections during remote learning as well as a range of activities to develop relationships.

The St Kevin's Student Wellbeing Hub has also continued to be updated and developed. The purpose of the Hub is to provide additional resources and support for students, parents and teachers in relation to mental health and wellbeing. Materials and resources of the Hub include:

• SEL Glendalough page has links to current SEL lessons that take place on a weekly basis across all Glendalough year levels. SEL lessons and resources are tailored to meet the needs of junior students and incorporate themes such as respectful relationships, getting along with others, cyber safety, mindfulness, selfcontrol, and more.

• Heyington and Waterford page resources include evidence-based mental health and wellbeing resources for teenagers. Also included in this page are links to the three programs delivered across St Kevin’s Senior School: Seed, Formation and Momentum. These programs focus on the development of young people’s personal and social capabilities, including recognition and expression of emotions, developing resilience, respectful relationships, diversity and collaboration. • Student Self-Care Plan The selfcare plan includes a collection of easy, everyday mental wellbeing activities students can try. The activities have been provided by staff at St Kevin’s or external providers such as Smiling Mind, Reach Out and the Black Dog Institute. Students select their favourite activities to create a personalised plan for improving their mental wellbeing.

• The Counselling page provides current advice and support networks from the counselling team and external providers.

• The Parent’s page is a support tool for parents and has links to current resources and evidence-based materials around mental health and wellbeing.