Student Wellbeing

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) is committed to providing safe, inclusive and respectful learning environments for all children and young people. The Vision for Instruction and Vision for Engagement outline how this commitment is lived across Catholic schools and support the MACS 2030 vision: that every student is inspired and enabled to flourish and enrich the world.

At Holy Spirit Primary School Thornbury East, we strive to ensure that students are equipped with the skills, strategies and opportunities to grow into socially, emotionally and spiritually well individuals. Through a range of wellbeing programs, curriculum initiatives and community opportunities, we work together to create a thriving and connected school community.

In our positive school community, every face has a place, every voice is important and everyone has something to contribute. We value strong relationships and provide opportunities for students, staff and families to feel included, connected and supported in a caring and dynamic environment.

What Wellbeing Looks Like at Holy Spirit

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL)
Our whole-school PBL framework explicitly teaches and reinforces our behaviour expectations of being:

  • Safe
  • Respectful
  • Responsible

Students are supported through consistent routines, positive relationships and targeted wellbeing supports aligned with our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).

Mental Health and Wellbeing Supports
Through the Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS) initiative, we promote positive mental health, early intervention and student wellbeing across the school community.

Camps Program (Years 3–6)
Students participate in school camps from Years 3–6, providing opportunities to build independence, resilience, teamwork, leadership and positive peer relationships.

Incursions and Wellbeing Programs
Students engage in a range of incursions and educational programs that support wellbeing, cybersafety, resilience and respectful relationships, including programs such as the Dolly’s Dream initiative.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities
Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities that promote confidence, teamwork, creativity and school connectedness. These opportunities may include Interschool Sport, Student Leadership, choir, and lunchtime clubs, such as Chess Club. 

Faith and Community Connection
As a Catholic school, our faith and values underpin all aspects of school life. Students are provided opportunities to engage in prayer, liturgy, social justice initiatives and community outreach activities that foster compassion, empathy and service to others.

Strong Partnerships with Families
We value the important partnership between school and home and work collaboratively with families to support the wellbeing and learning of every child. We also encourage families to enter our learning spaces, often seen in our Learning Expos!

At Holy Spirit, wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility. Together, we aim to nurture confident, connected and compassionate learners who are inspired to flourish both within and beyond the classroom.