When young people are both physically and emotionally healthy, they can fully participate in learning and take advantage of the numerous opportunities we provide.
They are equipped to handle life’s challenges positively and develop strong, meaningful connections with their peers and teachers.
Our WISE Wellbeing program, launched in 2020, fosters holistic development from ELC to Year 12, promoting all aspects of student wellbeing.
In 2023, our Wellbeing Centre opened, providing a nurturing and supportive environment that offers group programs, peer interactions, and counselling services with a focus on flexibility and inclusivity.
Through our personalised mentor programs, restorative practices, and comprehensive counseling services, we ensure each student’s individual needs are met.
Additionally, our commitment extends to providing nutritious meals and a Health Centre staffed by our College nurses, ensuring students’ physical and emotional well-being is paramount.
Wellbeing Centre
In 2023, we inaugurated our dedicated Wellbeing Centre, offering abundant advantages for students by creating a warm and secure atmosphere.
This venue is designed to support group activities and peer connections while fostering a nurturing ambience. With an expanded pool of counselling professionals, a revamped student booking system, versatile service options, and a meticulously curated living green wall, this inclusive facility empowers our students to prioritise their wellbeing effectively.
WISE Wellbeing
Here, students and staff collaborate with mutual respect, nurturing the development of independent, resilient, and responsible individuals.
Launched in 2020, our College’s WISE Wellbeing program comprehensively addresses the various aspects of a child’s well-being: academic, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual.
The success of this program is attributed to the dedication of our mentors, classroom teachers, health and cocurricular program leaders, specialist teachers, counsellors, and the implementation of extensive wellbeing initiatives, including our Personal Development Plan program.
Mentor Program
At St Leonard’s we are geared towards empowering every student to reach their full potential. Recognising each student’s unique talents, interests, experiences, and learning styles, we reject a one-size-fits-all approach to education.
To equip every student with the tools they need for success, we’ve implemented a mentoring program spanning their entire journey at the College, from orientation to Year 12 exam preparation. In the Junior School, teachers double as mentors, fostering a supportive environment that encourages risk-taking and growth. Students in Years 5 and 6, Middle School, and Senior School are placed in home rooms, where dedicated mentors monitor their academic and personal progress, forming strong partnerships with parents. Mentors encourage self-management, challenge comfort zones, and promote positivity, fostering an environment where students can excel.
Peer Support programs facilitate transitions between years, with senior students serving as positive role models for younger peers. Senior School mentors conduct regular meetings, addressing topics such as stress management and academic performance. They maintain close communication with parents to ensure each student receives personalised support. Effective mentoring hinges on strong connections between staff, students, and parents. Our mentors prioritize understanding each student’s individuality, fostering a supportive and personalised approach that enables every St Leonard’s student to thrive.
Counselling Services
Our counselling team collaborate with students, parents, teaching staff, and mentors to address academic, emotional, and social challenges.
Counselling services cover various areas, including assessments for cognitive and emotional strengths, educational support, assistance with social issues, and guidance on behavioral and emotional concerns.
Additionally, they offer support for family difficulties and special needs, ensuring holistic wellbeing for all students.
Restorative Practices
Restorative practices involve acknowledging conflicts, taking responsibility, and finding constructive resolutions. Through informal or formal discussions, parties seek agreement to repair harm and prevent future issues.
Our students are taught to respect diverse perspectives, treat others respectfully, and support wellbeing through positive behavior.
Our counselling team helps them communicate effectively, listen actively, and cultivate friendships.
Overall, we prioritise building a supportive community where conflicts are addressed constructively and relationships are nurtured.
Chaplaincy
Our College Chaplain, Reverend Judith Watkins, offers pastoral care to students, families and staff with a particular focus on supporting the nurture and development of the spiritual dimension. A dedicated Sacred Space is available at the College for conversation and reflection. Inclusive chapels are held during the year, providing opportunities for students to reflect on issues that are relevant to them, through the lens of their own spiritual life, beliefs and values. Whole school chapel services are held for events such as Easter, Christmas and Valedictory.
Our chaplaincy and social action programs encourage our students to contemplate their beliefs and gain valuable insights into the beliefs of others. We explore the significance of religion in a global context.
Through our deep commitment to service and social action, we provide our students with educational experiences and opportunities that enable them to look beyond their own circumstances and engage with the needs of others on a local, national and international level.
Student Reflection
In Year 9 my anxiety was a challenging barrier to school. I struggled with fear and unease that made attending school a significant challenge every day. The thought of navigating social interactions, participating in classes and meeting academic expectations often felt overwhelming. Each day was a battle between my desire to succeed, and the anxiety that seemed to hold me back.
However, my experiences at St Leonard’s College were not solely defined by these struggles. The supportive environment, understanding of my teachers and encouragement from my peers played crucial roles in my gradual transformation. The school’s emphasis on mental health and wellbeing provided a foundation upon which I could slowly rebuild my confidence and attend school. I remember the small victories such as attending class, engaging in group discussions and participating in school events. Each representing a small step forward, but feeling like a monumental achievement, not only to me but to my teachers too.
The turning point came when I started to see the results of my efforts, and the ways in which my resilience was paying off. I began to take on more responsibilities, initially in smaller roles, which gradually evolved into more significant positions. The opportunity to lead and be involved in various school activities not only boosted my confidence, but also helped me channel my energy into positive, productive pursuits. My leadership role was not just a title, but a reflection of my personal growth and the commitment I had made to overcome my challenges.
In retrospect, my time at St Leonard’s College has been a journey of reflective personal development. The challenges I faced due to anxiety taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking support when needed.
The transition from being a student who struggled with attendance to becoming a school leader signifies not only a personal triumph, but also the power of the supportive community at St Leonard’s that helped me along the way.
As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned and the strength gained from my experiences at St Leonard’s, ready to face future challenges with resilience and confidence.
Aliya Trucchi, Year 12
Health and Nutrition
Cafeterias
Our two in-house cafeterias, staffed by a team of experienced caterers, offer a diverse menu, including salads, soups, pastas, sandwiches, and daily specials.
The Middle School cafeteria serves Years 5 to 9 students on school days from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm.
The Senior School cafeteria offers the same services whilst providing a space for senior students to connect, as well as barista-made coffee, which is a favourite amongst staff.
Student lunch orders are placed through the FlexiSchools online portal.
Health Centre
Our Health Centre, staffed by registered nurses, prioritises the physical wellbeing of our students and staff, providing first aid, consultations, medication supervision, emergency care, and referrals.
Our staff also educate and support students dealing with health and social issues, ensuring they can fully participate in class.
For health advice, families can contact the Health Centre by phone or email.