Student Wellbeing
There is an interconnected relationship between student learning and wellbeing. Wellbeing can have a positive impact on student learning outcomes, the same way experiencing success in learning strengthens student wellbeing. The role of all teachers in considering and supporting student wellbeing is more important than ever, as we transition to an online learning environment during a global crisis.
Wellbeing is a complex set of interrelated factors, that has an impact on a adolescent’s ability to engage in life and learning. It is a combination of an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and social health. Teachers can support student wellbeing through ensuring students are safe, supported, connected and engaged. The strategies below can be used to support student wellbeing:
Safe - Create a safe learning environment for all students.
Establish and maintain clear expectations for online learning and monitor student communication, to ensure respectful interactions.
Create an environment where students feel comfortable to take risks in their learning.
Ensure learning programs are organised and clear, to ensure new routines are established and students understand the requirements and expectations e.g. due dates.
Support - Monitor the wellbeing of your students and provide support as required.
Regularly check-in with students by asking how they are going, both with school and life in general. Ask questions. See if they are coping with the transition to online learning. Check if they are taking time to eat, go outside and interact with family. Closely monitor student responses and look for any signs that a student is struggling.
Send individual messages to students or contact parents if you are concerned about a child's mental health and/or engagement. Use the above monitoring form to refer a student to the Wellbeing Team if you are concerned.
Look at the Student Wellbeing section of this site as it contains a number of resources to support student mental health.
Connect - Continue the development of positive relationships.
Provide opportunities for students to collaborate with their peers, through collaborative tasks and group discussions.
Create a range of opportunities for collaboration with students. This could be through small group or whole class video conferences, or live chats. A lot of students will be isolated when working at home and will value the interaction with their teachers and peers.
Engage - Engage all students in learning that is accessible, challenging and enjoyable.
Modify existing learning programs to ensure they are suitable for remote learning.
Ensure learning programs are flexible and have opportunities for student choice and personalisation.
Ensure learning is accessible to all students.