Wellbeing Report – February 2026

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Wellbeing Report – February 2026

Pastoral Program in action

At ASG, our commitment to student wellbeing continues to be embedded within the life of the school through our structured and intentional Pastoral Program. Over the first few weeks, students across all Year groups have participated in sessions designed to strengthen connection, promote personal growth, and reinforce the values that underpin our Christian Orthodox community.

These sessions focused on fostering belonging, resilience, and self-development across the junior years:

  • Year 7 – Strengthening connections: supporting students as they build friendships and transition confidently into secondary school life.
  • Year 8 – Rethinking challenges: encouraging students to develop resilience and adopt positive approaches to setbacks.
  • Year 9 – Becoming the best version of me: Guiding students to reflect on character, responsibility, and personal growth.

These sessions are integral to building strong peer relationships and empowering our Senior students to take on leadership roles within the school community. We thank staff for their active involvement in facilitating and supporting these important programs.

Our Year 12 students also participated in a police-led session on consent, reinforcing respectful relationships and responsible decision-making. Meanwhile, the Mother Maria of Paris Mission, supported by students in the Food Technology room, provided a valuable opportunity for service and community engagement.

Week 5 – Faith, growth and responsibility

In Week 5, pastoral sessions continued to address the spiritual, personal and academic dimensions of wellbeing:

  • Years 7 and 8: Father Dimitrios led a meaningful session on the Pathway to Easter, encouraging students to reflect on faith, preparation and spiritual growth during this important period in the Orthodox calendar.
  • Year 9: Mr Kiosidis presented on the Duke of Edinburgh Award, inspiring students to challenge themselves through service, skill development and outdoor adventure.
  • Year 10: students participated in a Police presentation about Online Safety, equipping them with strategies to navigate the digital world responsibly and safely.
  • Year 11: Mr Barra facilitated a study skills session in the Library, supporting students as they prepare for the academic demands of the senior years.
  • Year 12: Mr Theodoropoulos led a reflection session, providing students with dedicated time to consider their final year journey, clarify their goals, and focus intentionally on preparation for the HSC.

Year 12 Annual Retreat – Anna Bay

A significant highlight of the fortnight was our Annual Year 12 Retreat to Anna Bay. This experience provided students with valuable time away from the classroom to reflect on their personal growth, strengthen peer relationships and prepare spiritually and emotionally for the demands of the HSC year.

Throughout the retreat, students participated in a range of team-building activities designed to foster trust, collaboration and resilience. Dedicated reflection sessions encouraged them to consider their aspirations, responsibilities and the legacy they wish to leave as the graduating cohort. The retreat offered a meaningful opportunity for students to reconnect with their faith, peers and purpose as they approach this pivotal stage of their educational journey.

Partnering with parents – supporting online safety

Following the Year 10 Online Safety session, we encourage parents to continue conversations at home about responsible and balanced technology use. A highly regarded resource for families is The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, which explores the impact of smartphones and social media on young people’s wellbeing and offers practical guidance for parents navigating the digital landscape.

Working in partnership with families strengthens our shared commitment to ensuring students develop healthy habits, critical awareness and resilience in an increasingly digital world.

A whole-school commitment

Our Pastoral Program is most effective when it is supported by the collective efforts of staff, students and families. These sessions are carefully designed to nurture the academic, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing of every student.

We thank our teachers, guest presenters, and student leaders for their ongoing commitment to ensuring these sessions run smoothly and meaningfully. Through collaboration and shared purpose, we continue to create a safe and supportive environment where students can flourish.

John Theodoropoulos
Head of Wellbeing