Student Wellbeing Team
At Elwood College, student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our dedicated Student Wellbeing Team, comprised of our Student Wellbeing Coordinator and Mental Health Practitioner, works closely with students, families, and staff to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels safe, connected, and empowered to grow.
We focus on building strong, meaningful relationships with students to foster a sense of belonging and trust. Our approach encourages help-seeking and ensures that support is accessible, timely, and tailored to individual needs. Through a combination of counselling, psychoeducation, and proactive wellbeing initiatives throughout their schooling journey, we aim to equip students with the tools, resources and capacity to manage challenges, build resilience, and flourish both personally and academically.
Whether it's a listening ear, practical support, or mental health education, our Wellbeing Team is here to walk alongside students every step of the way.
The Elwood College Student Wellbeing Team is here to support young people with a wide range of challenges, including but not limited to:
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- Mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, or mood changes
- Stress and overwhelm related to school, exams, or personal pressures
- Friendship and relationship issues, including conflict, breakups, or social isolation
- Family challenges such as separation, conflict, or communication difficulties
- Bullying – both online (cyberbullying) and in-person
- Grief and loss due to bereavement or significant life changes
- Identity and self-discovery, including gender, sexuality, and cultural identity
- Managing anger or emotional regulation
- Substance use concerns or risk-taking behaviour
- Attendance or school engagement issues
- Transition challenges, including starting at a new school or preparing for life beyond school
- Access to external services and supports, including referrals to mental health professionals or youth services
Services that we offer include:
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- Individual counselling services
- Therapeutic groups targeting themes e.g. anxiety, school stress
- Parent psychoeducation workshops
- Referral to external support services for further intensive mental health support
- Secondary consultation and professional development for staff
- Implementation of school-wide wellbeing services and liaison with delivery of mental health support
Meet the team!
Caitlin Ridgway
Student Wellbeing Coordinator
Student Wellbeing Team
Amy Dyer
Mental Health Practitioner
Student Wellbeing Team
Programs and Workshops delivered by the Student Wellbeing Team include
Accessing referrals and avenues for support
At Elwood College, we encourage a collaborative approach to student wellbeing, and referrals to the Wellbeing Team can be made by students, parents, or staff. Our goal is to ensure timely, appropriate, and confidential support for any student who may be experiencing challenges.
Students
Students can self-refer by speaking directly with a member of the Wellbeing Team, visiting the wellbeing office, or requesting support through their year level Learning Leader or Sub School Director. We encourage students to reach out if they’re feeling overwhelmed, facing personal issues, or just need someone to talk to.
Parents/Carers
Parents and carers are welcome to refer their child by contacting the Wellbeing Team directly via phone or email or contacting their young persons Learning Leader or Sub School Director. Referrals might be based on concerns related to behaviour, mood, family changes, school engagement, or mental health. The team will work with families to ensure the right support is provided and maintain open communication.
Staff
Learning Leaders or Sub School Directors can refer students to the Wellbeing Team when they observe changes in behaviour, emotional distress, disengagement, or other signs of concern. Staff are encouraged to discuss referrals with students where appropriate and collaborate with wellbeing professionals to support student needs.
All referrals are handled sensitively and confidentially, with a focus on early intervention and providing a safe, non-judgemental space for support.
Collaboration with External Mental Health Services
At Elwood College, the Wellbeing Team works closely with a range of external mental health services to ensure students receive the most comprehensive and effective support possible. Key partnerships include services such as headspace and Alfred Child & Youth Mental Health Service (CYMHS).
Online Mental Health and Wellbeing Support for Young People and Parents
Support for Parents and Carers
Crisis and Wellbeing Support
Careers and Pathways
Find out more
