Wheelers Hill Secondary College's Wellbeing Team is dedicated to fostering the holistic development of students, staff, parents, and the wider school community. Our proactive and multifaceted Wellbeing Program is designed to cultivate a strong sense of belonging and resilience amongst our school community.

Central to our work is the belief that every student should have the opportunity to flourish and pursue a fulfilling educational journey. In alignment with the principles outlined in the Department of Education and Training Framework to Improving Student Outcomes (FISO 2.0) Policy, our Wellbeing Team is committed to nurturing students' strengths and creating a secure learning environment where they feel valued and supported.

Our efforts reflect the core values of Wheelers Hill Secondary College: Respect, Excellence and Creativity. By upholding these values and prioritising the wellbeing of our students, staff and community, we strive to empower students to reach their full potential and embark on meaningful pathways to success.

Wellbeing Mission​

The Wellbeing Team’s mission is to advocate for, implement and evaluate student wellbeing, through a collaborative and holistic framework. The promotion and de-stigmatisation of mental health and wellbeing will enhance connectedness and partnerships within and beyond the College community for positive student outcomes.

Comprised of a diverse cohort of professionals, our Wellbeing Team extends a variety of tailored support services to both students and their families. We provide confidential individual counselling for students, referral to external support services, positive mental health promotion and relevant school-wide wellbeing programs.

Students can encounter a variety of challenges, these may include:

•        Struggles with emotional regulation 

•        Difficulties navigating social interactions

•        Academic hurdles and additional learning requirements 

•        Experiencing family and domestic violence 

•        Coping with grief and loss

•        Instances of school refusal

•        Engaging in risk-taking behaviours 

•        Exposure to neglect, abuse, or harm 

•        Battling addiction

Student sessions are held in strict confidence within the Wellbeing Team. In cases where potential risks are identified, relevant information may be disclosed to ensure the student's safety, as mandated by our duty of care.

Referral to the Wellbeing Team

Students wishing to meet with the Wellbeing Team can:

·       Reach out to your Learning and Wellbeing Leader or Sub School Leader

·       Self-refer by filling out the referral form

·       Self-refer via email wellbeing@whsc.vic.edu.au

Parents wishing to contact the Wellbeing Team for support can reach out to your child’s relevant Learning and Wellbeing Leader or Sub School Leader. These leaders will provide support and initiate referral to the Wellbeing Team as needed.

We have a dedicated team committed to empowering students with disabilities and high needs, ensuring they have equitable access to inclusive education and can realise their full potential. Our comprehensive support framework includes:

• Developing Individualised Learning Plans tailored to each student's unique needs

• Collaborating closely with parents and assisting with funding applications

• Providing in-class support to support with comprehension and content breakdown

• Offering dedicated spaces during recess and lunch for engaging activities

• Supporting staff with effective behaviour management strategies

We are dedicated to fostering an environment where every student receives the individualised attention and resources they need to succeed in their academic journey.

Well established House System

• Motivational Mondays

• Robust ⁠Inclusion Space as part of the Program for Students with Disabilities

• International Students Program 

• Art Club

• Peer Support

• Respect Club 

• Student Voice and Agency (Lead by student leaders)

• Various whole school Mental Health Awareness initiatives and programs throughout the year

• Fortnightly wellbeing updates via the School News Letter

Child safety: Information for families and the school community 

In 2022, The Victorian Government introduced new Child Safe Standards with the aim of further strengthening child safety measures across organisations, including schools. These standards emphasise the pivotal role of families and the broader school community in safeguarding and nurturing the wellbeing of children.

At Wheelers Hill Secondary College, we are unwavering in our commitment to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for students. Our policies regarding child safety and wellbeing outline the array of measures and strategies in place to uphold, promote, and nurture the safety and welfare of our students. These include:

• Child Safety Policy - effective 1 July 2022 

• Child Safety Code of Conduct

• Child Safety - Responding and Reporting Obligations Policy and Procedures

• Duty of Care Policy

• Student Wellbeing and Engagement Policy 

• Cyber Safety Policy 2023

• Bullying Prevention Policy

• Volunteers Policy

• Complaints Policy 

As valuable partners in promoting and maintaining child safety and wellbeing, we welcome and encourage your feedback. If you have any suggestions, comments or questions in relation to our child safety policies and practices, please contact Wheelers Hill Secondary College at wheelers.hill.sc@education.vic.gov.au or by phone on (03) 9561 5811.