This online wellbeing program runs in the Empower Program from Years 8-12 (Year 7s start Term 2). This program addresses issues of stigma surrounding mental health in young people, encourages helpseeking, and creates a culture of mutual support and respect for any struggles that students may face. Please see the email sent to parents with attached PDF with clickable links to the resources.

This program was developed by Dr Hayley Watson, a child and adolescent clinical psychologist who has been developing programs across Australia and internationally for the past 15 years. There are video-based resources to provide you with practical tools for supporting the well-being of your child at all stages of their life. You will be sent links to accompany the topic areas that your child will be learning, with a specific skill to help them reinforce their learning of this material at home. 

Please see the first introduction link https://www.openparachute.com.au/overview-for-parents/ 

“A message from the founder, Dr Watson: “I am so pleased that your child is taking part in this program. I developed this resource because I want every child to learn practical mental health skills, so they can live life to their fullest potential. This program aims to build a strong foundation of resilience so that your child can learn to trust in their own abilities, relate to their own feelings in a healthy way, and change any unhelpful thoughts and/or behaviour patterns that may hold them back at any point in their lives. It is normal for your children to have feelings stirred up throughout the course of this program, because we are intentionally providing a space where they can address challenging issues in a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment. These conversations can also continue at home if you and your child would like to explore these topics further – the resources for parents can help guide these discussions.”  

If you would like to discuss this program or you have not received the email with the clickable links, please contact the school on 88620600.  

Kimberly Walker

Wellbeing and Inclusion Senior Leader