Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Colossians 3:12-13

I was reminded recently at a mental health awareness event that sometimes the most effective way to support others, or ourselves, is to return to the basics and focus on our foundations. In this context, when discussing complex and serious mental health challenges, the speaker from Lifeline Australia encouraged us to recognise that a person in distress is often overwhelmed, at their threshold, and struggling to feel any real sense of connection.

This message echoed the insights of Dr Jenny Brown in her Parent Forum presentation in Week 8. She reminded parents that the starting point in any relationship, especially with our children, is to show genuine interest in them. From there, she invited parents to reflect on their own style of parenting and to nurture empathy, curiosity, and confidence in how they relate to their children.

At the heart of both conversations is a simple truth – before people can engage with our ideas, they need to know that we genuinely care. Our greatest strength often lies in being our authentic selves, willing to have difficult conversations, extending grace instead of judgment, and building trust rather than “cancelling” others.

This same principle underpins the Year 11 pastoral incursion on Friday. As our students prepare to enter their final year of schooling, they will take part in a full-day program on respectful relationships, delivered by Your Choicez. The program is designed to help students reflect deeply on the choices they make, the pressures they face and the relationships they form.

Throughout the day, students will engage in a mix of presentations, personal reflections and small group discussions. Key topics include:

• Recognising the key ingredients of healthy relationships and identifying unhealthy behaviours
• Understanding consent and how it applies both online and offline
• Exploring the impact of digital culture on young people
• Considering personal values and beliefs when making decisions around relationships
• Building positive, meaningful connections with family and friends.

The seminar also provides a safe and respectful space for students to ask questions and engage in open conversation.

We hope every student leaves with greater confidence to make decisions that align with their values, strengthen their wellbeing, and support respectful, authentic relationships.