Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Putting wellbeing at the heart of education is crucial at Berri Regional Secondary College (BRSC). In response to the devastating impact of the River Murray floods and the ongoing challenges of COVID-19, the school established an onsite wellbeing hub – this lifeline has provided wellbeing services to over 400 children and young people in the last year, offering access to medical care, psychological support, mentoring and volunteer and breakfast programs, and other social supports.
Year 12 student Olivia is a testament to the hub’s impact – with support from the school psychologist, she overcame complex trauma and achieved top SACE results at the school. Her mum praises the school’s efforts: “Having access to a wellbeing team and a school Psych means that my family doesn’t need to pay for these things. If they had to, we wouldn’t be able to get the help I need.”
The school’s principal Clinton Ridgway emphasises the hub’s role: “It provides immediate support for students who need not only medical attention but students who might be feeling anxious, hungry, angry, upset, tired or anyone who presents with poor wellbeing and doesn’t know how to deal with those emotions.”
Giving students opportunities to volunteer and give back to their community has also done wonders for children’s wellbeing, with students volunteering over 4000 hours across 45 community organisations, including aged care, primary schools and childcare, charities, Land Care and local council. A collaborative effort between the school, Our Town Berri, and Volunteering SA/NT, and the school’s dedicated Community Connections Coordinator.
The wellbeing hub has been a community game-changer. Children are happier, more engaged, attendance is up, and they’re building essential life skills. Perceptions amongst the community have also shifted – families see the school as nurturing and supportive beyond the classroom and local residents see how students are making a positive contribution to the town.
BRSC’s innovative model has captured the interest of the Department for Education, government officials, and media. The school plans to develop the hub into a self-sustainable model and in partnership with Schools Plus, will continue to employ a Community Connections Coordinator to foster strong school-community ties and share opportunities for other local primary schools and organisations to join forces.