Araluen Primary School has a commitment to student wellbeing and provides a range of programs and supports as detailed below.
Our mission with The Resilience Project’s Partnership Program is a whole school approach to teach social skill development and positive mental health strategies to help students become happier and more resilient both during school years and into adulthood. The research is clear (click here); the more positive emotion you experience, the more resilient you will be.
For that reason, we focus on three key pillars proven to cultivate positive emotion;
Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM)
The program also has a strong focus on Connection, Purpose, Kindness, Emotional Literacy, and Physical Health. Every class participates in the weekly GEM lessons focusing on a particular aspect of social skill development and mental health wellbeing which is embedded in our learning throughout the year.
The school has a Student Wellbeing Officer available Wednesday to Friday who provides a range of services to students and families.
Our Buddies program promotes social and emotional development and helps to build and support networks for students in Foundation and Foundation Support. It promotes a sense of community and belonging in the school.
Breakfast Club is organised by our Student Wellbeing Coordinator with the assistance of our wonderful parent volunteers. Breakfast is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8.30 a.m. in the Coolibah Cafe. Breakfast is provided at no charge and is available to all students to give them a healthy start to their day.
Each year, children in Foundation undergo a full medical check-up by a school nurse from the Department of Human Services. The School Nurse runs an information session for Foundation parents prior to the annual medical checks. He/she also follows up on children in other grades previously identified with medical concerns. Any other children may be referred by a teacher or at the request of a parent. This is a free service.
Personnel to assist schools in both Education Programs/Assessments and Student Services (Counselling and Guidance / Speech Pathology) are available, after consultation with the school.