19 March 2026
We are pleased to share that several members of our Outdoor Education staff have recently completed Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training run by Monica Bignold (Head of Psychology Services). This nationally recognised course equips adults who work closely with young people with the skills to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges.
Outdoor Education plays a unique role in students’ lives and staff often see students in new environments that encourage teamwork, resilience and personal growth. These settings can also be moments where a young person may show signs of stress, anxiety, or emotional difficulty.
By completing YMHFA, our Outdoor Education team has strengthened their confidence and capability to:
• recognise early signs of mental health concerns
• offer initial support in a calm, practical, and safe manner
• listen without judgement
• encourage students to seek further help when needed
• respond effectively in situations where a young person may be experiencing heightened distress
This training complements the broader wellbeing supports already in place at the School, including our Heads of House, Year Level Coordinators, Mentors, Psychology Services and the Diverse Learning Needs team. It ensures that when students are learning beyond the classroom they are surrounded by adults who are not only skilled in managing the physical environment, but who are also equipped to support their emotional wellbeing.
We are grateful to our Outdoor Education staff for their commitment to fostering a safe, supportive and caring environment for all students. Their willingness to further build their knowledge reflects the strong culture of wellbeing at the School.
Monica Bignold
Head of Psychology Services
