On Tuesday 23 November all students across the Year levels participated in a Wellbeing Day.

The Year 8 students had an informative presentation from the Butterfly Foundation Let’s Talk Body Image in a Digital World.

The Butterfly Foundation has been offering evidence-based, age and developmentally appropriate programs in schools and other youth settings since 2006.

Their presentation explored the role that social media plays on body confidence and self-esteem. The presentation aims to strengthen young people’s media literacy skills and empower them through the way they use, and view, social medial platforms, encouraging our young to have a safer, and more body positive, online experience.

The presentation focused on:

• The role of appearance ideals online
• Identifying the drivers of trends and influencers, and how to view these
• The importance of being kind to ourselves after 18 months of lockdown
• Reinforcing the message that body changes are normal and healthy
• Discussing the pressures from social media on how to look, and what to do about this
• The importance of kindness online
• Strategies to use if you are being bullied or teased online
  • Is it kind?
  • Is it true?
  • It is necessary?
  • Would you like it said to you?
  • The importance of communication – telling an adult or a teacher if you are being bullied online

The students found the presentation engaging and the information and strategies useful. If you would like further information about the session content or the Butterfly Foundation, please do not hesitate to contact their Education Team at education@butterfly.org.au.

In House Tutor Groups the students completed a time capsule activity. This included responding to questions about the 2021 lockdowns, as well as adding meaningful images of fond memories from their time during lockdown. The time capsule was sealed and will be distributed to the students at their Valedictory in 2025.

In preparing the students for Year 9, in 2022, we had presentations about the Duke of Edinburgh International Program. Students from Years 10 and 11 shared their experiences and journeys through the program and explained the benefits of being involved in the scheme. The students signed up online and are preparing for 2022. The Christmas holiday period is a time when many students can undertake some of the elements of the program, which will count towards their Bronze Certificate.

Mr James Brown also introduced the students to the Leadership Diploma, and the girls heard from two Year 10 students who provided a presentation on Cyber Safety, which is a component of the Diploma.

The day finished with the Cohort playing a range of games in House Tutor Groups on the field. After the physical activity, many students went off to Elf Jr. rehearsals.

It was a fulfilling day for all of the students, as there is much excitement and anticipation about 2022.