17 May 2024
Welcome to Term 2!
Exciting news - the formal is booked! This fabulous event will be held at Chateau Elan at the Vintage and is on Thursday the 14th November. Parents, check your emails for more information. Deposits to be paid shortly at the front office. Book your hair appointments and start shopping for your beautiful frocks and suits! I cannot wait to celebrate with you all.
Balancing school work and wellbeing is a critical issue to consider as the third round of assessment tasks roll in and preparation for the trial HSC begins. I know that this message has been given already, but here are several strategies and tips to support your child help manage their workload while maintaining their mental and physical health:
Time Management
- Create a Schedule:
o Use planners or digital calendars to organise study time, classes, extracurricular activities, and relaxation periods.
o Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance.
- Break Tasks into Smaller Steps:
o Divide large assignments into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
o Set specific goals for each study session.
- Avoid Procrastination:
o Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused: work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
Effective Study Habits
- Find a Suitable Study Environment:
o Choose a quiet, well-lit place free from distractions.
o Keep study materials organised and within reach.
- Active Learning Techniques:
o Engage in active reading, take notes, and summarise information in your own words.
o Use flashcards, mind maps, and practice tests to reinforce learning.
- Seek Help When Needed:
o Don’t hesitate to ask your teachers, peers, HSC study tutor Miss Schafer or Year advisor for help if you’re struggling with a subject.
o Create or join study groups for collaborative learning.
Physical Health
- Regular Exercise:
o Incorporate physical activities like walking, running, or yoga into your daily routine to boost energy levels and reduce stress.
- Balanced Diet:
o Eat nutritious meals and snacks to maintain energy and concentration.
o Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Adequate Sleep:
o Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
o Establish a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
Mental Health
- Mindfulness and Relaxation:
o Practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or journaling to reduce stress.
o Take short breaks during study sessions to relax and recharge.
- Social Connections:
o Spend time with family and friends to build a support network.
o Participate in social activities to balance academic responsibilities.
- Professional Support:
o If feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a counsellor or mental health professional.
o The school has the SPHERE with many great resources to support wellbeing and a school counsellor. There is also a school GP on Wednesdays. Check in with me or head teacher wellbeing if you have any questions about any of these resources.
Balance and Boundaries
- Set Realistic Goals:
o Understand your limits and avoid overcommitting to activities.
o Learn to say no when necessary to prevent burnout.
- Quality Over Quantity:
o Focus on the quality of study sessions rather than the quantity of time spent.
o Effective studying for shorter periods can be more beneficial than long, unproductive hours.
- Enjoy Leisure Activities:
o Engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy to relax and take your mind off school work.
o Balance academic work with time for relaxation and fun.
Implementation Tips
- Regular Reviews:
o Regularly review your schedule and workload to make adjustments as needed.
o Reflect on what strategies are working and what needs improvement.
- Reward Yourself:
o Set up a reward system for completing tasks or reaching milestones.
o Small rewards can motivate you to stay on track.
By integrating these strategies into their daily routine, students can achieve a better balance between school work and personal wellbeing. Remember, maintaining health and happiness is essential for long-term academic success. Everyone is here to support students.