F E AT U R E
The power of connection and belonging
Student wellbeing at BGS focuses on promoting effective learning, positive mental health, good physical health, and high levels of social and emotional wellbeing for students.
protective factor for mental wellbeing is having a sense of belonging,” he said. “Student Wellbeing at Brisbane Grammar School encompasses student wellbeing structures, student wellbeing experiences, and the student wellbeing curriculum.”
Providing a safe and supportive learning environment is part of the BGS Strategy and the Student Wellbeing program plays a vital role in ensuring every student develops a sense of belonging and connection.
“Added to these three key areas of the Student Wellbeing program is the Cocurricular program. It is a vital piece of the puzzle that ensures BGS boys feel a sense of belonging. Some of the greatest experiences that boys have at school involve playing in teams and being part of cultural, sport and activities.”
The Student Wellbeing program complements the Academic and Cocurricular programs as the three key pillars of a BGS education. Deputy Headmaster and Head of Senior School David Carroll leads the Student Wellbeing Team. A formal structure of wellbeing programs combine to ensure every individual’s progress through all areas of school life is monitored.
As part of the Student Wellbeing curriculum, boys engage in programs that nurture their social, ethical, physical, intellectual and emotional development. These programs provide relevant, age-specific experiences. BGS teachers present the vast number of wellbeing topics in the classroom, with national and international guest speakers delivering seminars on specific topics like drug and alcohol use, pornography and healthy relationships, and the importance of sleep.
The team includes the Director of Student Wellbeing Programs, Heads of Year, Student Services, Outdoor Education, Public Purpose, Boarding, and Health Services. Mr Carroll explained that when a boy feels connected, they also feel that important sense of belonging.
Student Wellbeing experiences include public purpose, student committees, and cultural and leadership tours.
“We know through research that the most important
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