Wellbeing

Our 5-13 Wellbeing Strategy

At Penrith Selective High School, our 5-13 Wellbeing Strategy aims to ensure a holistic approach as students enter Penrith Selective High School, throughout their time at school and then as they transition to university.

The first element of our 5-13 Wellbeing strategy is Years 5-6. This is focussed on ensuring that students entering the school successfully transition from primary school to high school.

Upon arrival, our Year 7-12 wellbeing activities endeavour to ensure that all students are supported to achieve their personal best through their 6 years at high school. During the 6 years of high school, students are supported through an evidenced based and differentiated wellbeing program which is delivered in timetabled lessons. Additionally, we offer a broad range of co-curricular, enrichment and club programs where students can work with staff and other students who share common interests in their year group as well others.

The final element of our strategy is to ensure students transition to University and life beyond school, hence the 13^th year. The 13^th year also ensures the school and alumni remain connected so that professional relationships can be strengthened between students beyond the school gates. It also facilitates the return of former students to work as academic mentors, enrichment tutors and coaches. We have a diverse alumni and value their participation in events such as Alumni Night where they provide powerful insights, encouragement and support

All staff at Penrith Selective High School undertake ongoing training to understand current research and its impact on highly gifted learners. This professional learning uses Gagne’s Differentiated Model of Giftedness in addition to using the work of Del Siegle & Betsy McCoach and their Achievement Orientation Model.

The school also has a close working relationship with Bridges Academy in Studio City, California and has been proud to host preeminent experts in 2e students (Twice Exceptional) Dr Susan Baum and Dr Robin Schader. The Bridges Suite of Tools is widely used to support students, teachers and parents to focus on a strengths based, talent development model of education.

The Penrith Selective High School 5-13 Wellbeing Strategy is a recipient of the NSW Department of Education’s Executive Director’s Award for Program Excellence.

Our wellbeing team consists of the following staff:

• Principal
• Deputy Principals
• Head Teacher Educational Achievement
• Year Advisers
• Academic Advisers
• Learning Support Coordinator
• Careers Adviser
• Transition Adviser
• Advocate for Female Students
• Student Support Officer
• School Counsellors and Psychologists.

How we support student wellbeing

Supporting each student’s mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing is part of everyday school life.

We do this through:

• teachers who help students feel welcome and included
• access to school counsellors, school psychologists and specialist staff
• programs that support health, social skills, attendance and positive behaviour
• help for students who are new or changing year levels
• clear expectations for behaviour and respectful relationships
• staff who get to know each child and work closely with families
• developing health care plans for students
• open communication about wellbeing and support.

Visit Our principal and staff to learn about our wellbeing and specialist support staff.

Need support for your child's wellbeing?

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