Issue 4 2024 - Student Services
Student Services
Brad Woodruff
Open Day - Feedback from ex-students
It was very enjoyable to have several conversations with ex-students throughout the Open Day event. Many had questions about my role as Program Coordinator of Student Services and how The Hive operated. Following these chats, a poignant theme emerged, some wished they had received better mental health support during their time at school.
Former students shared that while academic support was always a priority, they often felt that their emotional and mental health would have benefited from the facilities and support now offered at the College. This feedback is enlightening and sobering, underscoring the necessity of evolving our approach to mental health support within our educational framework.
It’s essential that we create an environment where students feel safe, supported and heard. Hearing their experiences has reinforced the importance of prioritising mental health and well-being in our school community. It’s clear that while academic support is crucial, our students’ emotional and psychological well-being is equally vital.
We are committed to learning from this feedback and actively exploring ways to enhance our students’ mental health resources and support systems. Feedback and experiences are invaluable as we work to create a more supportive environment.
NAIDOC Activities
Recently, our school had the honour of hosting students from Kwoorabup Nature School. The school has a rich and vibrant Aboriginal culture education program and has recently been recognised nationally for this program. The visit was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to learn about, appreciate, and celebrate Australia’s First Nations peoples’ traditions, history, and contributions.
Our guests sang songs in Noongar and English that showcased various aspects of Aboriginal culture. Following the performance, students from both schools, shared damper around an open fire. We look forward to more opportunities to learn from the students of Kwoorabup Nature School.
Adam Voigt – Real Schools
Last Friday, several college staff, including myself, were fortunate to attend a keynote speech by Adam Voigt. Adam is an Australian educator and speaker known for his work in school leadership, student well-being, and creating positive school cultures. I found his philosophy and strategies motivating and practical, as did most of the staff who attended. I took away several teaching strategies that I will introduce to my teaching and promote to our staff.
Voigt emphasises the importance of relationships in education. He believes strong, positive relationships between teachers, students, and the broader school community are fundamental to effective learning and student well-being. He argues that relationships should be central to educational practice, promoting trust, respect, and a supportive learning environment.
Voigt strongly advocates for restorative practices in schools, a key focus area of Student Services at Denmark Ag. This approach focuses on repairing harm and restoring relationships rather than punitive measures. He believes that when students make mistakes, the focus should be on understanding the impact of their actions, taking responsibility, and working to make things right. He stresses the importance of creating a positive school culture where students feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn. This includes fostering a sense of belonging and community within the school, where everyone feels respected and included.
Central to his philosophy and that of the Student Service team is the belief that student well-being is as important as academic achievement. He advocates for schools to focus on students’ holistic development, ensuring that they are emotionally, socially, and mentally supported in addition to their academic needs.
Voigt’s principles and our mission at Student Services are strongly aligned — a commitment to improving educational outcomes by fostering environments where students can thrive both academically and personally.
School Nurse
Dana Boston is our school nurse and is available by appointment to see students. School health services are an easy way for students to access health care and health information for matters including;
Healthy lifestyle
Nutrition and physical activity
Development and growth
Mental health and well-being
Relationships and sexual health
Alcohol and other drugs
Young people are always encouraged to talk to their caregivers about significant health issues. The services provided by the nurse are free and confidential. Students can make appointments in person by seeing me for a booking, or parents can call The Hive on 98480275 to discuss their child’s health.
Brad Woodruff
Program Coordinator - Student Services
WACOA – Denmark