As a teenager, holidays are a precious time to unwind and rejuvenate after a demanding term. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your break to ensure you’re refreshed and ready to tackle the next term with energy and focus: 

  1. Unplug from Screens
  • Limit Screen Time: Reduce the hours spent on phones, tablets, and computers. Instead, engage in activities that don’t involve screens, like reading a book, going for a walk, or playing a sport. 
  • Digital Detox: Consider taking a day or two completely off from electronic devices to give your eyes and mind a break. 
  1. Get Plenty of Sleep
  • Establish a Routine: While it’s tempting to stay up late, try to maintain a regular sleep schedule. Aim for 8-9 hours of sleep per night to allow your body to rest and recover fully. 
  1. Stay Active
  • Exercise: Physical activity is a great way to de-stress. Whether it’s jogging, cycling, or even yoga, find something you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine. 
  • Outdoor Time: Spending time outdoors has proven benefits for mental health. Take advantage of the holiday break to explore nature or simply enjoy some fresh air. 
  1. Pursue Hobbies and Interests
  • Creative Outlets: Use your free time to indulge in activities you love, whether it’s painting, writing, playing a musical instrument, or cooking. These hobbies can be therapeutic and help you unwind. 
  1. Connect with Loved Ones
  • Family Time: Holidays are a great opportunity to strengthen bonds with family members. Plan activities together like game nights, cooking meals, or watching movies. 
  • Socialise: Stay connected with friends. Schedule hangouts or video calls to catch up and share experiences from the term. 
  1. Practice Mindfulness
  • Relaxation Techniques: Learn and practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to manage stress and promote inner calm. 
  1. Reflect and Plan Ahead
  • Journaling: Reflect on your achievements and challenges from the past term. Set goals and intentions for the upcoming term, both academically and personally. 
  • Schedule: Use a planner or digital calendar to organise your time. Allocate slots for study, relaxation, and activities to maintain a balanced schedule. 
  1. Eat Well
  • Balanced Diet: Fuel your body with nutritious foods. Avoid excessive junk food and sugary snacks, as they can affect your mood and energy levels. 
  1. Seek Help if Needed
  • Support System: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, don’t hesitate to talk to a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or school counsellor. They can provide guidance and support. 
  1. Enjoy the Moment
  • Mindful Living: Embrace the present moment and enjoy the break. Take time to appreciate the small joys and experiences that come your way. 

By following these tips, you can make the most of your holidays to recharge and reset. Remember, a well-rested mind and body will set you up for success in the next term. 

 

Mr Sam Johnstone  

Deputy Principal: Pastoral Care and Well-Being 

Last week, Year 8 students welcomed Mrs Jenna Eddy and Miss Danika Hurley, guest presenters from Mackay, Queensland, who delivered a pastoral care program ‘Love Bites’. Love Bites is a violence prevention and respectful relationships program developed by the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN).

The program advocates that young people can change statistics by making different choices, resolving issues in non-violent ways and can develop respectful relationships. Please find below some comments from students who were participants of the sessions over the two days. 

“Confronting information that was delivered appropriately for our age group” 

“Although the information was confronting, it was important that we learned about it in a professional and safe way.” 

“The engaging activities kept the sessions interesting rather than a straight presentation of just the presenters talking at us.” 

“Content was accurate and appropriate and very modern. The topics and activities kept our interest.”            

 Ms Maxine Neaton 

Director Middle Years