From learning to express feelings of pride and fear, to practicing gratitude in preparation for adulthood, Newcastle Anglican Schools are proving learning is not just about academics, it’s about growing the whole child.
Within the classrooms of all four Newcastle Anglican Schools, this means giving students the tools to understand their emotions, build strong relationships, and look after their mental health as they move through each stage of schooling.
At the heart of learning at Manning Valley Anglican College (MVAC), Lakes Grammar – An Anglican School, Scone Grammar School and Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College (BTAC), there are five simple but powerful areas: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
These become the stepping stones for students to develop confidence, resilience, and care for themselves and others.
The early years: learning to name emotions
In their younger years, students spend time learning to recognise and name their feelings. It might sound small, but this is where wellbeing begins.
When a child can say “I’m feeling worried,” or “I feel proud,” they are better able to share with their teacher, a parent, or a friend, and that opens the door for support.
Middle School: navigating change together
Middle School can be a whirlwind of transition, so teachers make sure students don’t face it alone.
Wellbeing is part of the timetable, with dedicated lessons through the Wellio program.
These sessions adapt to the needs of each group, giving students space to talk about emotions, friendships, and mental health. They also learn how to look out for one another, because growing up is easier when you know someone has your back.
Senior School: tools for life
As students step into Senior School, they begin The Resilience Project, where gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness are at the centre.
These practices, woven into Tutor time, give students practical tools they can carry into adulthood.
It’s about more than just getting through exams; it’s about learning lifelong habits that nurture mental health and wellbeing.
A weekly check-in for every student
From Year 5 onwards, students also take part in weekly Pulse Wellbeing Check-ins.
This gives them a moment to pause and reflect on how they’re feeling, and to reach out for help if they need it.
The check-ins include the chance to send gratitude messages to classmates or staff – a small action that research shows can make a big difference to wellbeing.
At every stage, the goal is simple: to make mental health a natural, everyday part of learning.
By giving students the skills to recognise their emotions, support one another, and build healthy habits, Newcastle Anglican Schools are helping them grow into young people who are ready to flourish – both at school and in life.
Newcastle Anglican’s Executive Director of Education Deb Clancy says looking after students’ social and emotional wellbeing is just as important as keeping their bodies healthy.
“Flourishing students are more creative, socially connected, have improved learning outcomes, and generally live longer,” she says.
“A key concept in positive psychology is the mental health continuum model – which illustrates mental health as a range of emotions, from flourishing to struggling.
“Our schools proactively promote mental wellness and resilience, using the Learning Power Approach, positive psychology, and resources provided by BeYou – the national mental health and wellbeing initiative developed in collaboration with Early Childhood Australia and headspace.”
