This year, Barbreck students from Prep to Year 4 were delighted to learn within a dedicated Health specialist class. Students in Years 5 and 6 had several sessions per term covering a range of Health-related topics. The lessons have been a great way of exploring the many aspects of Health.

The girls have loved all aspects of the curriculum. For the younger girls a particular video on the ABCs of safety was a real hit. Humour has been a great tool to get important messages and topics across, as many topics can be a little personal and tricky to deal with.

The Years 5 and 6 girls were quite hesitant when faced with sessions on puberty; however, through a few age appropriate, humorous videos, it soon brought them around to being more willing to talk about the subject.

It was rewarding to see many of the girls change their attitude and become confident about the next step in their lives, being prepared and ready for change. Being informed and prepared is powerful.

They were also involved in our recent online Bodyworks session with Amanda Parsons. Amanda held a very informative session with our Years 5 and 6 girls along with their parents, discussing all aspects of puberty.

Our Year 4 students will soon be introduced to the topic of puberty in readiness for more in-depth talks to follow next year.

All Year levels have been exploring emotions and how we respond to different situations. Our wellbeing and mental health, particularly during lockdown, and now as we return to School, have been part of our discussions. We have also explored how respect, empathy and valuing diversity can positively influence our relationships. The students understand that they are all individuals, the same in some aspects, yet different and unique at the same time.

Many of our students are currently identifying health messages in the media so they have a better understanding of how health is important with everything we say, feel, eat and do, after all, health is all about us.