FOSTERING WELLBEING AT CAREY Expect Great Things
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
MR KEITH MCMULLEN Principal
Wellbeing is a topic that is front of mind for many of us A vision of wellbeing inhabits our hearts and often gives shape to what we value, our activities, or at least what our hopes for what life might hold. A desire for flourishing, both individually and in groups we are part of, lies behind much of what we do as human beings Across different times, cultures, and worldviews, people have sought a happy, secure and meaningful life
“Oh, to have a job you liked, a mate you trusted, a child who loved you, a purpose in life.”
This is one person’s vision of wellbeing – that of a character in Jonathan Franzen’s contemporary novel, Purity Others may put it more simply as a sense of ‘happiness’ with how life is going Wellbeing has proven to be very difficult to define with many versions put forward Part of the struggle to come to a point of agreement is the social and cultural change our world is undergoing.
Keith Condie from the Mental Health and Pastoral Care Institute reflects:
“Within western thought for much of the last two thousand years, human flourishing was understood relationally. What was good for me could not be isolated from the web of relationships I belonged to, and the responsibilities that flowed from them Love of God and neighbour were not simply religious duties; they were vital means to a person’s wellbeing.”
However, more recently the focus of wellbeing has shifted to the search for individual satisfaction and enjoyment, pursuing wants and desires This is most evident in today’s ‘wellbeing’ industry. Challenges arise when the goals of the ‘good life‘ do not align with actual experience, and how do we resolve the conflict one person’s individual vision of wellbeing and the means to achieve it, clashes with another’s?
Despite the flow toward the focus on individualistic wellbeing, our school holds the relational element of wellbeing as critical for our community, and its members’ health
At William Carey, we define wellbeing as a positive sense of who we are and of belonging, making wise and healthy choices to lead a purposeful and meaningful life. It is best achieved by ‘living God’s way, in God’s world, as God’s image’. This enables us to have the relationships, character and wisdom to navigate life’s circumstances. Our wellbeing programs embedded in our school life are shaped to provide students with the relational skills and experiences to promote flourishing both now and for eternity
An essential need for wellbeing is safety As a school, we are committed to providing a child safe and child friendly environment, where children and young people are safe, feel safe, and can actively participate in decisions that affect their lives. As such we are committed to embedding the Child Safe Standards as part of school life. Further, our Anti-bullying Policy and procedures are a key component in promoting and maintaining a safe and secure place for students to learn.
William Carey Christian School proactively seeks to create a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment for all students, and will respond to all instances of harassment, discrimination, and bullying All members of our school community have a shared responsibility to care for others and maintain an environment that is free from harassment, discrimination, and hurt Bullying is unacceptable and we (students, staff, and parents) all share a responsibility for preventing it
The School has developed a dedicated ‘I Need Help With Bullying’ page on the Wellbeing section of the WCCS Family Portal. In this space, you will find a wide range of resources to help you and your child understand bullying with topics including:
What is bullying?
What is not bullying?
How the school will respond
What can I do if my child is being bullied?
(including a ‘Report a bully’ link).
How to respond to cyberbullying
Advice on what to do if you are a bystander of bullying behaviour
The ‘Anti-bullying Information for Parents’ brochure is also available on this page This brochure is an excellent, easy to read resource. While this is helpful for parents and carers, I really encourage you to sit with your child and read through it with them and discuss any concerns they may have.
More detailed information about the school’s AntiBullying Policy is available on our website: (https://wccs nsw edu au/key-policies /)
Community Survey:
On a different topic, you will have received an email inviting you to participate in the survey ‘Perspectives: Your school in focus’ This community survey seeks to gather feedback from all stakeholders within our community, including students (Years 5 – 12), families, staff, school leaders, and Board members.
I encourage you to participate in this survey. It takes about 15 minutes and all responses are anonymous. We value the feedback of our Parents and Carers, as a means to understand how we can undertake continuous improvement in serving our community in delivering an excellent Christian education. We look forward to your feedback and working together for the benefit of the school community
God bless,
Mr Keith McMullen
Principal
FROM THE PRIMARY DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Caring as Christ Calls Us To
William Carey Christian School’s Vision is ‘To see our students saved by Christ. To see our staff and students live for Christ To see our students learn, grow and flourish ’
We are called by God to care deeply for the wellbeing of others - not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually Jesus gave us clear and powerful teachings on this, which still hold strong in today's community.
First, Jesus reminds us to "Love your neighbours as yourself" (Matthew 22:39) This is more than kindness, it's a call to compassion When we value others' needs as much as our own, we reflect God's love in everyday acts, whether it’s a listening ear, a meal shared, or a prayer offered.
Second, He said, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these... you did for me" (Matthew 25:40).
Jesus identifies with the vulnerable In this, Jesus identifies Himself with the vulnerable those who are hungry, sick, lonely, or forgotten
When we serve the marginalised, we are in fact honouring Christ Himself This truth reminds us that acts of service are not just practical they are deeply spiritual, becoming sacred moments of connection and grace.
Lastly, through the Great Commission, Jesus calls us to nurture the spiritual wellbeing of others: “Go and make disciples of all nations teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20)
Evangelism and discipleship are not merely duties they are profound expressions of love. When we share the Good News and walk alongside others in their faith journeys, we offer hope that reaches beyond today and into eternity
Yours in Christ, Mrs Coote Deputy Principal - Primary
FROM THE HIGH SCHOOL DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Wellbeing for High School Students
At William Carey, we provide a range of programs and resources to support student wellbeing Our goal is to foster a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment where students can grow spiritually and thrive emotionally, socially and academically Read below on topics about wellbeing in young people.
Recognising Stress in Teens
Teens may not always realise they’re experiencing anxiety or depression, but they can often describe their symptoms. You may notice signs too.
Common indicators of stress include: irritability or mood swings, sleep issues (too much or too little), social withdrawal or changes in friendship patterns, low motivation, difficulty focusing or concentrating, physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches and Frequent illness
How Parents Can Help
If your child is feeling high academic pressure (especially in senior years), this can heighten stress. Students can get caught in a perfection trap, especially girls, and they often need parental support to help to help them find balance between study, family, and social life.
Dr Charlotte Keating, a psychologist specialising in adolescent behaviour, offers seven proven ways to reduce stress: get eight hours of sleep, exercise 30 minutes daily, eat well (Mediterranean diet), relax each day, take study breaks, practise mindfulness, and keep things in perspective.
Supporting Senior Students
While the final year of school is exciting, it can also bring intense pressure from exams to university applications Parents often wonder how best to support their child during this time Research from the Black Dog Institute shows youth mental health is one of today’s biggest challenges.
Stress levels rise during the teen years, with coping cited as the top concern for young people of all ages Risk increases as adolescents age, becoming most prevalent in the older teen years The good news is children aged 15-19 are generally open to receiving help from their parents so take the lead and initiate the conversation.
Shaping Healthy Masculinity
In today's fast-moving world, many boys are struggling to find direction Even well-meaning online searches about fitness, confidence or relationships can lead them to content that promotes rigid or unhealthy ideas about masculinity. The critically acclaimed TV show 'Adolescence' has brought fresh attention to this issue, highlighting how boys are often exposed to messages that glorify toughness and dominance, while dismissing empathy and emotional openness
By modelling healthy behaviours, creating safe spaces for open conversation, and encouraging respectful friendships (especially across genders), we can help boys grow into emotionally intelligent and confident young men.
A recent SchoolTV report titled Shaping Healthy Masculinity (click for article) calls for a cultural shift and advocates for curiosity-driven dialogue that builds trust and critical thinking. The goal is to raise boys who are not just resistant to harmful influences, but actively capable of questioning and rejecting them
I hope this information helps you support your child Please remember, we are here to help. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact their Pastoral Care teacher or Year Adviser for guidance and support.
Anthony Hudson Deputy Principal High School
PREP Expect Great Things
LEARNING BIG SKILLS IN LITTLE MOMENTS
This Term our Prep children have continued forming friendships, building trusting relationships with their Educators, and finding familiarity and a sense of belonging in the Prep and wider School environment
At Prep we provide play based experiences and plenty of opportunities for young children to practise a range of skills to support their wellbeing such as:
Problem solving in friendships
Asking for help
Identifying and expressing their feelings
Managing difficult feelings
Caring about and helping others.
Second Step Program:
The Second Step program is an evidence based program of systematic, intentional instruction in skills and concepts to support children through short, engaging activities.
Students enjoy finding out about what their class puppets have been learning and practising the key skills with them.
We know that our Prep classroom and play spaces provide the opportunities for young children to practise with support from their Educators However, the ideal learning and growing happens best with the close scaffolding that parents and carers can give, in the home, at the park, at birthday parties and playdates.
The Second Steps program offers a Home Links program. I would encourage you to have a look at the helpful tips and activities to support and strengthen the Prep to Home learning partnership
We hope families have found this resource informative and helpful as we work together to lay firm foundations for your child’s wellbeing.
Michelle Larrea Director of Early Education & Care
Wellbeing in Action
The theme of this edition is wellbeing. We’re taking time to explore, celebrate, and reflect on the many ways our community supports the wellbeing of others; within our school and beyond
From everyday acts of kindness to intentional care for one another, wellbeing is woven into the fabric of William Carey Christian School.
This ‘Wellbeing in Action’ page highlights just a few examples of how care and connection are thriving in our school community.
Year 10 Service Learning
Year 10 Service Learning Day allows students to engage with community organisations across Sydney, including charities, aged care and support services. Through hands-on involvement, they gain insight into real-world needs and the value of serving others with compassion.
Second Step Program
Primary students take part in the ‘Second Step Program’, which supports wellbeing by helping children build socialemotional skills and develop positive behaviours for success at school and beyond.
Pastoral Care Class
Each High School student is part of a Pastoral Care class they stay with until graduation These groups support student wellbeing and provide a space to explore faith, build fellowship, and grow together at the begining of their day
K-Year 6 Buddies Program
Our K-6 Buddies Program builds connection and community by pairing younger and older students for shared activities These relationships foster friendship, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging
The Learning Centre
The Learning Centre is a supportive space that promotes wellbeing across our school It provides students with additional needs a calm environment where they can learn comfortably By offering tailored support and alternative learning spaces, TLC helps students feel understood and equipped to succeed
Welfare Support Te
Our team of counsellors psychologists provides valuable support through counselling, assessments and wellbeing education students, parents, and st
Staff Appreciation Days
Our two annual Staff Appreciation Days are a meaningful way to recognise the hard work and dedication of our staff. These moments of celebration help foster a positive and supportive school culture. By feeling valued and encouraged, staff wellbeing is strengthened, which benefits the whole school community.
LIBRARY NEWS WCCS STUDENT IS A PUBLISHED AUTHOR SHE SHARES HER BOOK WITH YEAR 2 STUDENTS
One of our students, Phoenix in Year 8, has recently had her very own book professionally published! Phoenix wrote and illustrated Wattle Won’t Waddle.
Wattle the penguin is always in a hurry and wants to be the best. He quickly becomes frustrated with himself Wattle needs to slow down and learn to be satisfied Will Wattle learn the joy of contentment and discover that life is better at a steady pace?
Phoenix presented her book to all of Year 2, who were very excited and interested in listening to her story. She shared with students what the book publishing process looks like and what an ISBN is
Students then had the opportunity to ask Phoenix questions about her book and about story writing and illustrating
During her presentation, Phoenix shared that the idea for her book first came as part of her Advanced Learning Projects (ALPS). This program provides a very flexible approach to learning, allowing students to choose or design their own field of study and work, and are given one-on-one assistance with a mentor to develop their skills in this area Students must complete both a presentation to an audience and a major work (written or physical) for their project.
We will soon have copies of Phoenix’s book available to borrow from the Library
Parent/Carer Borrowing Update
Our library is like a treasure chest with lots of treasures (books) to be found!
We welcome and encourage parents and carers to borrow from our collection, both for themselves and for their children. We have a wide variety of Fiction and Non-Fiction books, as well as readers, that are available for you to borrow We are expanding our resources on parenting and topics such as neurodiversity, feelings, anxiety and depression and more
Under our current system, parents and carers have been able to borrow books under their child’s account. We will soon be moving to an updated system where parents and carers will have their own, separate borrowing profile.
If you would like to borrow from our library, please click here to complete the form It will take one minute to complete. We will continue to loan items under your child’s account until our new system is in place.
OUR NEW TLC LEARNING SPACES
Students are thoroughly enjoying the new furniture in our Primary School TLC (The Learning Centre) area this year
We have loved seeing them as they learn and make thoughtful use of the updated spaces and resources, These new additions support focused, collaborative, and independent learning.
We’re especially excited about the new TLC group learning space, which has quickly become a vibrant hub of creativity and shared discovery.
The space is already fostering a strong sense of community and enriching our students learning experiences.
Yours in Christ, Mrs Costa & Mrs Roberts
DOBBY & GADGET
Pet therapy is a significant component of our wellbeing program at WCCS. Our students regularly have discussions with the birds, chickens and Dobby, our school support dog
The Benefits of Pet Therapy:
Students find comfort from cuddles, connections, and care of our animals. When Dobby is not at school students are appreciating the addition of his buddy ‘Gadget’ and the floating fish in the new bubble tube
Our newest furry addition to the TLC space.
Meet Gadget!
SUPPORTING STUDENT WELLBEING
At William Carey Christian School, student wellbeing is a key priority Our dedicated Wellbeing Team includes experienced school psychologists and a caring Wellbeing Officer who work together to support students through a wide range of challenges
Whether students need help managing emotions, navigating friendships, or facing difficulties with learning, our counselling service provides a safe and confidential space to talk. The psychologists also offer assessments, seminars, and collaborate with families and teachers to support student growth
To refer your child to speak with someone from the wellbeing team, a confidential form is available on the parent portal This form is sent directly to the psychology team The team meet weekly to review referrals and contact families to discuss next steps and provide appropriate support where needed.
For more information, please click on the ‘Welfare’ icon in the parent portal or download the Student Well-being Information Pack PDF.
Our School Counsellors
Mrs Schroder Psychologist
F12 – Mon to Thurs
Ms Criminale Psychologist
W4 - Mon-Thurs
Mr Belling-Talbot Psychologist
F13 – All week
Mrs Hector Wellbeing Officer Thursday-Friday
STUDENT WELLBEING
Program Coordinator Update
I’m excited to have stepped into the role of Student Wellbeing Program Coordinator in 2025. It has already been so encouraging to see our students enthusiastically engage in opportunities to serve others and contribute meaningfully to our wider community.
Their willingness to step up and support those around them reflects the heart of our school’s values. Before taking on this new role, I worked in Primary for 15 years
It has been especially rewarding to see students I’ve previously taught now thriving in high school and to reconnect with them through this role
Some highlights so far have been the Year 10 Service Learning Day and seeing the enthusiasm of our Year 11 students as they prepare to run our soon-to-launch Pen Pal Project. This is a wonderful initiative that will connect some of our Primary students with residents of local aged care facilities through regular letter writing while being supported by older students.
Looking ahead, I’m thrilled about the projects we have on the horizon. I believe the initiatives we have planned will provide rich opportunities for students to grow in empathy, build strong connections, and feel a deeper sense of belonging within our school community I can’t wait to see the impact they will haveboth on those we serve and on our students themselves
Year 10 Service Learning Day
Our Year 10 students recently took part in a full-day Service Learning experience, volunteering with organisations across Sydney
They served at locations including FoodBank, Blue Hills, and various Anglicare sites such as Barry Marsh House, Community Assistance Centres, and Op Shops
Students engaged meaningfully with groups supporting those facing challenges like homelessness, ageing, and financial hardship They were able to gain insight into the lives of others. While growing in compassion, and a heart for service along the way
Mrs Linda Vanmidde Student Wellbeing Program Coordinator
Year10 Service Learning Day
Anglicare: Barry Marsh House Students participated in a meaningful experience at Anglicare’s aged care site, supporting residents alongside Lifestyle staff. They helped with any tasks needed, and spent time connecting with residents through activities and conversation.
Anglicare's Food and Financial Assistance warehouse is the hub for food donations collected by schools and churches across NSW and supports the Mobile Community Pantry program Year 10 students assisted by sorting donations, packing hampers, and preparing vans to deliver essential groceries to communities in need
At Anglicare’s Op Shop Outlet, Year 10 students toured the warehouse that processes thousands of tonnes of donated goods each year They learned how items are collected, sorted, and rehomed, and helped with tasks like packing bags, sorting donations, and preparing clothing for sale in Anglicare’s Op Shops
At Padstow Community Care, students attended the weekly Seniors Hub to connect with elderly community members and provide meaningful social interaction. They also assisted with sorting donations for the Community Care Op Shop, supporting the centre’s ongoing work
At Prestons Lodge, students enjoyed a special intergenerational opportunity to connect with residents and support their wellbeing through activities, art, and conversation. Working alongside staff, they also assisted with tasks as needed. William Carey maintains an ongoing relationship with Prestons Lodge, with regular visits from our Prep students as well.
MATES PROGRAM
MATES runs every Monday and Friday lunchtime Selected students in primary meet with a high school mentor to ‘play’ together and connect through an activity that is selected by the Primary student
Pairs of students may draw, read, do craft, play a board game, play a physical game and ‘hang out’ together for the lunch break
Our Primary students love their big mates, and it is a highlight of the week
Our High School mates are gracious and generous and love to serve their little friends Some activities are hosted in the TLC (The Learning Centre) or behind the Primary classrooms and the Hall It is lovely to see our Primary students grow in confidence and develop deep relationships with their High School mate
Yours in Christ, Mrs Post
KINDY-YEAR 6 BUDDIES PROGRAM
Kindy–Year 6 Buddies Program
If you ask Mr Burns, Head of Stage 3, what he loves about our Kindy and Year 6 Buddy Program, he’ll tell you: “The program models Christ-like service, fosters leadership, empathy and community it’s really valuable!”
The Kindy and Year 6 Buddy Program at William Carey Christian School is a shining example of service learning in action Starting in Term 1, each Kindergarten student is paired with a Year 6 buddy to help them settle into school life. These older students take their roles seriously by reading with their Kindy buddies, playing games, showing them around the playground, and helping them feel safe and welcomed.
In Week 2, Year 6 students led their Kindy friends in a fun-filled games session on Turner Field
“Keeping them in order is difficult, they each want to do their own
thing But it’s fun to see them so happy!” said Wes from 6B with a grin
The benefits go both ways. For Year 6 students, the program provides an opportunity to lead, nurture and grow in responsibility Verity from 6C shared, “Aimee, my buddy, loves Bluey and fairies. We sometimes go to the bird cage because Aimee loves birds!” Ira, also from 6C, enjoys the leadership aspect: “My buddy Maisie loves to play Duck, Duck, Goose and Red Light, Green Light ”
For the younger students, their buddies become trusted friends and role models. Zuri from KJ reflected, “I like my buddy because he is older. We played soccer, and he taught me some soccer tricks and how to shoot in basketball.”
Christian from 6C, Zuri’s buddy, shared his thoughts too: “We learn skills like how to be wise It’s great making others feel happy.”
The program continues throughout the year and ends with a special moment: each Year 6 student creates a personalised storybook featuring their Kindy buddy as the main character Many Year 6 students still remember the book their own buddy gave them years ago
“Buddies is a highlight for both our Year 6 and Kindergarten students,” says Mr Burns “It enables older students to support their Kindergarten peers with care and guidance, reflecting God’s love in action.”
Yours in Christ, Mr Neggo and Mr Bennett
MULTICULTURAL DAY
Prep
Our Prep students had a wonderful time celebrating Multicultural Day, recognising the diverse cultures within our school community The day began with shared activities exploring and honouring First Nations culture, followed by hands-on classroom experiences led by parents who generously shared stories, music, and traditions from their own cultural backgrounds.
The celebration concluded with a morning tea picnic and free play, bringing students, staff, and families together in a spirit of unity and appreciation
MULTICULTURAL DAY Primary
Our Primary and High School spaces came alive with colour, music and celebration as we marked Multicultural Day 2025! Students engaged in a wide array of activities including dancing, storytelling, art and tasting food from cultures around the world A highlight was the vibrant cultural parade, where students proudly waved flags and wore traditional dress
It was a joyful reminder of the beautiful diversity within our community and how God has brought people from many backgrounds together to learn, grow and thrive.
MULTICULTURAL DAY High School
AROUND THE GROUNDS
Facilities Updates:
As a school, we have been working with planners and the local council to provide upgrades to facilities and additional classrooms. Beyond the current upgrades to classroom furnishings, toilet facilities, and playing surfaces, the School is planning for additional High School classrooms, covered outdoor learning areas, and improved parking facilities
While this planning has been underway, our enrolments have seen significant growth To meet this need, the School has installed two temporary demountable classrooms for High School lessons These fully equipped classrooms are situated near R and S Blocks and will be used until the more permanent facilities are finalised We look forward to the facilities currently being planned and give thanks for our growing school.
These new classrooms are already being well used and enjoyed by staff and students alike
MOTHERS DAY Breakfast
We had 600 people come along to our inaugural Prep - Year 12 Mother’s Day breakfast this year!
The sun was shining, and it was a special morning together with friends, food, and music.
A big thank you to all those involved in preparing and running the celebration to acknowledge the mums, grandmothers and mother figures in our community.
Jo Barden
Community Relations Assistant
MOTHER’S DAY STALL
A big thank you to all the wonderful parent volunteers who helped prepare and run our Mother's Day Stall last week Thanks to their support, over 600 gifts were purchased by both Primary and High School students
Your time and effort made it possible for so many students to celebrate and bless their mums and special mother figures.
ANGLICARE: TAKE LOVE
Anglicare's 'Take Love' Program Inspires Year 9 Students
Our Year 9 students were privileged to hear from a representative of Anglicare about their 'Take Love' initiative. This youth-focused program encourages young people to embody the love of Jesus by
serving their communities through practical acts of kindness and compassion. The presentation highlighted various service opportunities, such as volunteering in aged care facilities, participating in food and clothing drives, and engaging in intergenerational
programs like Virtual Visiting. Students were inspired to consider how they can make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, reflecting on the program's guiding verse: "We love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19) .
CRU FIT
(Followers in Training)
Some of our Year 5 and 6 students had the opportunity to take part in a CRU FIT training session The students took part in practical workshops exploring how to serve others at home, at school, and within their CRU Groups. CRU FIT events are run across NSW and the ACT and are designed to equip young Christian leaders with the skills and confidence to lead faithfully in their communities
INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY
On the 12 of May, we had the opportunity to honour our school's incredible nurses. Their compassion, care, and dedication make a lasting impact on the wellbeing of our Carey community. We’re so thankful for all that they do!
YEAR 7 TECHNOLOGY PROJECT
Year 7 Students Create Handcrafted Bags
Our Year 7 Technology students have done a fantastic job designing and sewing their very own cotton bags, adding a creative touch with tie-dyed finishes. Many students chose to gift their beautifully made bags to their mums or grandmothers for Mother’s Day, adding a personal and heartfelt element to their learning. This activity is a wonderful opportunity to build practical skills while creating something meaningful to share with loved ones.
ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
Years
