10 September 2025
Supporting Students Through Change
Navigating transitions and homesickness transitions aren’t just a single event; they’re a process. School transitions mark important milestones in growth and development, but they can also bring emotional challenges for students and their families.
Even after settling into a new environment, students may experience anxiety, frustration, or shifts in behaviour. These reactions are normal and reflect the emotional effort required to adapt to new routines, expectations, and social dynamics. As we approach the latter half of Term 3, many students are beginning to think about upcoming year level or campus transitions.
This is a valuable time for families to reflect on how best to support their children through these changes. For students in boarding, homesickness can be an ongoing challenge. It’s a human response to change and can affect everyone, often surfacing after the initial “honeymoon” period of adjustment. Homesickness may be triggered by something as simple as a familiar smell or memory.
Supporting your child begins with acknowledging their feelings and helping them develop strategies to feel more settled and confident. Teaching them to recognise when they need help, and who to turn to, is a key step toward independence. Parents are encouraged to partner with the school in this journey. While difficult feelings may not disappear overnight, preparation and open communication can make a significant difference.
We encourage parents to explore the SchoolTV edition on School Transitions, which offers practical strategies to help children manage stress and build resilience, and on Managing Homesickness which provides helpful insights and strategies for families navigating this experience. If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please reach out to your child’s key pastoral staff or Psychology Services.
We’re here to help.
Junior School Psychology Services Art Competition
At our Week 5 Reception to Year 6 Assembly, students, staff, and families gathered together. Monica and Ebony announced the winner of our art design competition for the doorway between the Psychology Services office and Mr Storer’s office. We were delighted to receive a number of imaginative entries from students across the Junior School.
The winning design will be printed and displayed on the door, helping to create a warm, welcoming, and student-inspired space for those accessing support. Congratulations to Ayman Mahmud (4B), whose artwork was selected as the winning design, and to Brendon Liu (1L), who received a special commendation for his submission. We thank all students who participated for their creativity and enthusiasm. Initiatives like this foster a sense of ownership and connection to wellbeing spaces within our school community.
Stay tuned for photos of the final design once it’s installed!
Monica Bignold
Head of Psychology Services
