Dear Parents and Guardians,

Asking someone if they’re OK may sound a little simplistic, but it may just be the catalyst they need to seek help and get their life back on track. 

At assembly we heard from a very courageous Ned Stevens (12/LE) who shared his journey with anxiety and depression. Ned told us that the day he was diagnosed changed his life forever. Not only did it allow him to receive the help he needed, but it helped him to accept the realities of his condition. Ned talked about the stigma surrounding mental health and the conversations that need to be had in order to help those who suffer. 

The boys were urged to be observant in their circle of friends and if they thought someone might have a problem, ask the question R U OK? They may not wish to talk about it even if they do have an issue and that is ok; just asking may spur them on the seek help elsewhere. Our boys were encouraged to wear colourful socks today (pictured above) and start conversations.

Our senior leaders once again showed initiative and booked performers from Brainstorm Productions to perform for our junior boys. Year 7 attended a performance called Sticks and Stones, which encouraged students to have empathy and understand that violence and intimidation, invading people’s personal space, and offensive comments about a person’s gender, sexuality or race are all illegal and can have serious consequences, both in person and online.

Year 8 attended The Hurting Game, an action-packed, humorous and engaging anti-bullying and cyber safety program, and Year 9 attended Cheap Thrills. This one-man show was about that split second when we reach a crossroad, make a choice, take a risk and possibly change our lives forever. It looked at the potential impact of our choices on wellbeing and mental health. Please use these performances to start a conversation with your son.

On Saturday night Newington College will have its first Open Air Cinema Night. We will be screening The Final Quarter. The documentary is about when the cheers turned to boos in the final years of AFL champion footballer Adam Goodes’ career when he publicly called out racism. This impassioned film tracks Australia’s heated response. All proceeds from this event will go towards bringing the Redtails Indigenous Football Club to Newington next year.

I look forward to your family joining mine for the evening.