Blue Week has become an important event on the SPSC calendar, raising awareness about wellbeing and mental health for our boys and indeed the broader school community. This year’s Blue Week theme has been ‘It’s okay to not be okay’ has been central to the activities organised by our School Captains, encouraging students and staff to connect, have meaningful conversations, and support one another.
Last Thursday during Muster, we welcomed old scholar Nathan Bolton (YNG 2006) who shared his personal story and emphasised that true courage is often found in asking for help. The message was further reinforced by our School Vice-Captain, Ryan Fowler, who openly and vulnerably addressed the boys, sharing his own recent struggles and highlighting that reaching out for help is a sign of strength and courage.
As an Anglican School we have a responsibility to focus on the pastoral care and wellbeing of every individual. Through our weekly chapel and school muster, students are presented with a theme that is thoughtfully explored by our Chaplains. They connect the messages of the Bible to real-world situations, encouraging students to reflect on how these teachings apply to their lives. Last Sunday at the Boarders’ formal chapel, the theme was ‘Gratitude’. This focus was particularly timely- aligning with our Blue Week theme – for our boys to deeply consider and celebrate the things they are most grateful for in their lives.
For our Year 12 Boarders it was especially significant as it was their last formal chapel at SPSC. It provided an opportunity for them to consider what they have been grateful for during their time here, and no doubt, for all our Year 12 students, there is plenty of reflection occurring as their time at school quickly concludes.
Through our mentor sessions and House activities, each student is encouraged to actively engage and participate in programs that support their own wellbeing and that of the community. In 2024, this has included a wellbeing check-in as art of “Wellbeing Wednesday”. Through this check-in, students can request a conversation with one of our staff members, allowing us to monitor how our boys are progressing. As part of Blue Week, our boys participated in “Muffins with their Mentors,” providing an opportunity to share a meal and engage in conversation related to the week’s theme.
We are intentional in our support of the boys through educative programs like our Blue Week focus, pastoral care initiatives, and the guidance provided by our Mentors and House system. This is one of the strengths of our chool community. During this week, where we have emphasised that “it’s okay to not be okay”, if you have any concerns about your son, please reach out to us so that we can work together to ensure he feels valued, safe, and connected.
David Nolan
Deputy Headmaster