News

R U OK? and the Potential of One
R U OK? Day is our national day of action dedicated to reminding everyone that we’ve all got what it takes to ask, “are you ok?” and support those struggling with life. Taking part can be as simple as learning the four steps so you can have a conversation that could change a life.

The four steps are as simple as:

• Asking R U OK?
• Listen with an open mind.
• Encourage action.
• Check in again afterwards.

Click here for further discussion:

By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed in people, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up. And if all is well, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask. And that is precisely the theme of our endeavours this year; individuals matter to the College community and our care for individuals is the ultimate measure of our whole community. 

Origins of R U OK Day
In 1995, much-loved Barry Larkin was far from ok. His suicide left family and friends in deep grief and with endless questions. In 2009, his son Gavin Larkin chose to champion just one question to honour his father and to try and protect other families from the pain his endured.

While collaborating with Janina Nearn on a documentary to raise awareness, the team quickly realised the documentary alone wouldn't be enough. To genuinely change behaviour Australia-wide, a national campaign was needed. And from this realisation, and with Gavin and Janina’s expertise and passion, R U OK? was born.

Tenison Celebrations 
So at Tenison Woods College the day is about inspiring people to start these conversations every day of the year; to let individual people know that they matter to others in the community and indeed the whole community. Their wellbeing underlines the potential of one; the potential of one whole community.

I am delighted that our student leaders are creating awareness on Thursday 14 September under the sails with the following:

• Sausage sizzle $1
• Cup cakes $1
• Milos $1
• Jellies $1
• Face painting, hair glitter, lucky dip 50c
• Scavenger hunt, soccer shootout & music
• Headspace - Reference Group members will hold a stall

So I encourage students to get involved and parents to discuss this issue with them at home. Here's something that might brighten your day - Click here!

Staff Formation Day – 8 September
Our Staff Formation Day was held in Mount Gambier on Friday 8 September, 2017. Staff spent the day immersed in the story of Catholic education in Mount Gambier, a place imbued with the charisms of Josephite, Mercy and Marist charisms as well as the passion of committed Catholic educators.

The day provided us with the opportunity to learn more about the history and the contemporary connections of the story to the work we do. In appreciating the shoulders upon which we stand, we also committed to capturing carefully the story since 2000 and our evolving call to service for our community. 

Parent Education Week – Next Week
We look forward to supporting Parents in Education Week by facilitating parent online participation in the sessions conducted. We will gather in the Tension Woods College Staffroom to view the sessions together, accompanied by refreshments.

The sessions will be conducted from 7:00pm to 8:45pm and boast highly regarded speakers.

Tuesday 19 September                                       

• The 21st Century child

Minister Susan Close, Dr Kristin Alford, Niki Buchan, Jodie Benveniste

Wednesday 20 September

• Unlocking your child’s potential and learning through strength-based parenting

Professor Lea Waters

Thursday 21 September  

• 9 Ways to a Resilient Child
• Learn how to build a strong connection with your child

Dr Justin Coulson

Interested community members are asked to register with Mary de Nys (denym@tenison.catholic.edu.au) to assist with catering.

God Bless,

David Mezinec | Principal

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