wellbeing

At Taradale Primary School, the wellbeing of every child is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that strong wellbeing is the foundation for meaningful learning and that academic growth and emotional development go hand in hand. Our aim is to create a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child feels safe, supported and fully engaged in their learning.

Our wellbeing team is led by our dedicated on-site Wellbeing Worker, Brita Johanson, who works closely with Principal Chris Burgess and our Disability Inclusion Co-ordinator Kristie Lacey. Brita is available at the school every Monday and Friday to support students and families and we warmly encourage families to contact the school if they would like further information or support.

To strengthen our approach, all staff undertake Berry Street Education Model training, ensuring our practices align with trauma-informed, relationship-based and wellbeing-focused strategies.

Taradale Primary School is also an active member of a Wellbeing Community of Practice, partnering with Mount Alexander Shire Council, Cobaw Community Health, School Focused Youth Services, Dhelkaya Health, Bendigo Health, Castlemaine Community House and other local schools. Together, this network works collaboratively to enhance the wellbeing of children across our broader community.

Wellbeing resources for parents and carers

In this section we will list resources that are available for families to use at home to support their children. 

Links to resources

Pathological Demand Avoidance  - PDA

Respectful Relationships

Making Friends with Worry

Preparation for Puberty

Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS)

🧭 Victorian Community & Mental Health Supports for Children and Families

• Children’s Health & Wellbeing Locals
  Free local services for children (0–11 years) and their families, offering access to paediatricians, psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and more — no referral needed in many areas. Better Health Channel
  
  

• Support If You’re Concerned About Your Child’s Mental Health
  Victorian Government advice on where to start, including contacting your GP, community health centre, or Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Victorian Government
  
  

• Kids Hubs (Medicare Mental Health)
  A free service for children aged 0–12 experiencing emotional, behavioural or developmental concerns — offers assessment, allied health support, and care coordination. Medicare Mental Health
  
  

• Connect Me (Relationships Australia Victoria)
  Free counselling and support for children aged 4–11, including face-to-face, video, or phone sessions; works with schools, families, and other services. Relationships Australia Victoria
  
  

• Telephone & Online Mental Health Services (Health Vic)
  A directory of 24/7 or after-hours mental health helplines, including Lifeline, Kids Helpline, SANE, and more. Health Victoria
  
  

• Counselling, Online & Phone Support (Better Health Channel)
  Information about services like Lifeline, Kids Helpline, Suicide Call Back Service, and support for parents and carers. Better Health Channel
  
  

• Family & Child Support Services (Better Health Channel)
  Support for families with parenting, relationship stress, or a child’s mental health — includes phone lines like Parentline. Better Health Channel
  
  

• Finding Mental Health Support for Your Child (ACD)
  A guide to identifying local community-based mental health practitioners, school-based mental health staff, and allied health options. ACD
  
  

• Looking After Your Child’s Mental Health (Parents’ Guide)
  Practical advice, phone lines, and online tools for parents and carers concerned about their child’s emotional wellbeing. Education Victoria+1