Issue 3 2025 - Student Services
Student Services
Brad Woodruff
Do It For Dolly Day 2025: A Day of Kindness, Connection, and Community Spirit
Our college recently celebrated Do It For Dolly Day 2025 with a vibrant and meaningful display of kindness, compassion, and unity. Organised by our dedicated Year 12 Prefects and supported by the Year 10 Student Councillors, this year’s event was our largest and most successful yet—a true testament to the growing commitment among students to take a stand against bullying.
One of the major highlights of the day was the fundraising raffle featuring official Do It For Dolly Day (DIFDD) merchandise. Thanks to the incredible generosity of students, staff, and supporters, the raffle raised $675, which will directly support the vital work of Dolly’s Dream Foundation in bullying prevention and youth mental health.
In the lead-up to the event, English lessons across multiple year levels explored the impacts of bullying. Through discussion and written reflection, students examined the emotional and social consequences of harmful behaviour, reinforcing the message that kindness and empathy truly matter.
The day was further enriched with a variety of lunchtime activities designed to foster connection and creativity. Students participated in butterfly origami, word sleuths, and message-writing, sharing words of kindness with peers and staff - small gestures that made a significant impact across the college.
A special thank you goes to our wonderful kitchen staff, who not only supported the event but also actively advocated for student wellbeing by preparing a colourful and delicious morning tea. Their efforts brought warmth and celebration to the day, reminding us all of the power of shared moments and community care.
Each year, Do It For Dolly Day continues to grow in spirit and influence at our college. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, the strength found in unity, and the need to always look out for one another.
Let’s keep the momentum going, today and every day, by choosing kindness and standing up for what is right.
Wheatbelt Social-Emotional Wellbeing Survey: Supporting Student Voices in Mental Health
As part of our ongoing commitment to student mental health and emotional wellbeing, our college recently participated in the Wheatbelt Social-Emotional Wellbeing Survey.
Designed specifically for schools in the Wheatbelt region, the survey provides valuable insights into the social and emotional experiences of young people. By offering students a safe and confidential platform to share their thoughts and feelings, the survey helps educators, wellbeing staff, and community leaders better understand the challenges students face - ensuring we can provide more effective support.
Key areas explored in the survey included:
Emotional regulation and coping strategies
Connection to school, peers, and family
Experiences of safety and inclusion
Help-seeking behaviours and access to support
Participation in the survey is a vital step in ensuring that students’ voices are heard and valued. The data collected will help shape future initiatives, wellbeing programs, and support services tailored to the specific needs of our school and the broader Wheatbelt community.
For more information about the Wheatbelt Social-Emotional Wellbeing Survey or how we are using its findings to improve student wellbeing, please contact Bradley Woodruff – Program Coordinator, Student Services.
Supporting Teen Wellbeing: What the Latest Research Tells Us
The Student Services team at the college regularly analyses the latest research on adolescent health to remain informed about student needs.
A recent article from the ABC, based on findings from the 2025 Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and Wellbeing, highlights critical concerns regarding teenage health and wellbeing, both globally and within Australia.
The report warns that by 2030, nearly half a billion young people worldwide may be living with obesity or overweight. Mental health concerns are also rising, with increasing rates of depression, anxiety, and other preventable health issues, including poor nutrition, early pregnancy, and substance use.
It further examines how global challenges such as climate change, social media pressures, and the absence of targeted youth health policies, are contributing to these concerning trends. These factors not only impact physical health but also affect emotional resilience and a young person’s ability to thrive during these formative years.
For parents of teenagers aged 15–17, this serves as a timely reminder of the importance of maintaining open conversations about health, wellbeing, and emotional support. At school, we are dedicated to fostering student wellbeing through programs that strengthen mental fitness, encourage healthy lifestyles, and promote respectful relationships.
For more information on the article, visit: ABC News – Lancet Report on Adolescent Health.
Brad Woodruff
Program Coordinator - Student Services
WACOA – Denmark