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Wellbeing & Positive Education

 

Helping every child feel safe, connected and ready to learn.

At Tenison Woods, wellbeing isn’t an extra — it’s part of who we are. Through Positive Education, strong relationships and a whole-school approach, we support every child to flourish.

A Culture Where Every Child Thrives

Wellbeing at Tenison Woods isn’t a side program — it’s our culture.

Through Positive Education, we’re growing learners who are not just academically capable, but kind, courageous and compassionate people.

Because when children feel good, they do good — and that’s what flourishing in a modern Catholic school is all about.

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Positive Education in Action

Helping every child flourish — in learning and in life.

At Tenison Woods Catholic School in Richmond, SA, wellbeing isn’t just something we talk about — it’s the foundation of everything we do.

We know children learn best when they feel safe, valued and supported. That’s why Positive Education is explicitly taught from Reception to Year 6 — just like literacy or numeracy.

It’s all about giving students the tools to:

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Bounce back from challenges

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Grow healthy relationships

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Discover their strengths

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Thrive as their authentic selves

Our Positive Education Model

Helping students understand themselves, their emotions and how to thrive.

At Tenison Woods, Positive Education is woven into everyday learning. Built around six core elements, our model supports each child’s wellbeing, resilience and sense of purpose.

These elements come to life through two key programs:

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Grow Your Mind

Used in Reception to Year 2, Grow Your Mind helps students build emotional literacy, resilience and a strong understanding of their brain and strengths.

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The Wellbeing Distillery

Designed for Years 3–6, this program explores neuroscience, identity, gratitude and wellbeing through creative, student-led learning experiences.

We believe flourishing isn’t just about feeling good — it’s about doing good and becoming your best self.

 

Our Whole-School Approach to Wellbeing

Wellbeing is embedded in every part of school life — from the classroom to the staffroom, and from parent partnerships to playground culture.

Here’s how we bring it to life every day:

 

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Explicit Teaching

Weekly Positive Education lessons give students practical tools to develop emotional and social skills — from mindfulness and regulation to kindness and courage.

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Proactive, Tiered Support

Our planned wellbeing interventions include yoga, Lego, cooking clubs, daily mindfulness, and targeted programs for emotional regulation.

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Staff & Leadership Wellbeing

Our staff are trained in Mental Health First Aid and supported with dedicated planning time and PD — because thriving educators help students thrive.

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Safe, Supportive Environments

We use trauma-informed practices, calm routines and empathy-led behaviour support to help every child feel safe and seen.

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Strengths-Based Learning

Students explore their unique character strengths to build confidence, deepen friendships and grow a strong sense of identity.

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Partnering with Families

We offer workshops, coffee catch-ups and Community Wellbeing Days to help parents feel supported and included in our wellbeing journey.

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The Team Behind Student Wellbeing

Wellbeing at Tenison Woods is supported by a dedicated and highly trained team who work across the school to support every student and family. Together, they embed wellbeing in every part of school life — behind the scenes and in every classroom.

Our team includes:

Leads our whole-school approach to student wellbeing, including Positive Education programs, wellbeing strategy planning, and family partnerships. Acts as a key contact for student support.

Provides specialised support in student mental health and wellbeing. This includes psychology-informed guidance, counselling sessions, and coordination with external services when needed.

Supports students with additional learning needs, oversees Personalised Plans, and works closely with families, staff, and external professionals to ensure every child can access learning.

Deliver small group and one-on-one Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions. They assist in literacy, numeracy, emotional regulation, and wellbeing sessions, helping students thrive with tailored support.

Wellbeing is at the heart of learning.

Come see how we support the whole child, every day.