In the past, homes typically had only one phone, making communication less private and more costly. School life and home life were clearly separated, with most meals cooked at home and games like ‘Pass the Parcel’ focusing on fun rather than prizes for all. Outdoor activities were the norm, with young people spending 3-4 hours outside riding bikes or playing games. Safety features were limited, and there was little cultural diversity.

Over the decades, perceptions have shifted. In the 1950s, comic books were believed to turn young readers into criminals. Television in the 60s and 70s was blamed for cognitive decline, while long hair in the 1980s was sometimes seen as a sign of poor character. Video games in the 90s and early 2000s were linked to increased aggression. Today, the rapid rise of social media and mobile phone use shapes how young people connect, learn, and perceive the world.

Schools now face new challenges, including a rise in diagnoses of learning difficulties and greater reliance on technology in classrooms. Students and staff must adapt to higher expectations, and technology—from phones to smart watches and AI—is a constant topic of debate. Questions about device use in schools, social media age limits, and the reliability of online information are front of mind for many educators and parents.

Research shows technology can offer significant benefits, such as improved access to information and support for neurodivergent students. However, excessive time spent online, vulnerability to online abuse, and reduced opportunities for natural play are growing concerns. For younger children, heavy tech use may not be beneficial, and it’s important that technology does not replace vital school-based opportunities for play and adventure.

Despite these challenges, there are positive directions ahead. Embracing technology as a support for neurodiversity and learning can simplify tasks and promote healthy online communication. Schools are urged to adopt whole-school approaches to online safety and evaluate whether tech use truly benefits students. There’s a shift from equality to equity in diversity and inclusion, with a focus on promoting travel, health awareness, and acceptance in language and behaviour.

Yet, polarising social views and the existence of divergent groups—such as those defined by disability, race or identity—mean exclusion and mental health challenges persist. Inclusive education benefits all students, helping non-disabled and neurotypical children reduce fear and develop tolerance and communication skills. Teacher and student attitudes, ongoing professional development and peer support are crucial for building positive approaches.

Going forward, it’s important to strengthen professional support for teachers, provide better resources for inclusive classrooms, and foster social support for all students. Wellbeing programs and pastoral care systems need to be context-specific, tailored to each school’s unique environment, and focused on psychological safety rather than unhealthy competition. Recognising the links between nutrition, mental health, and the value of downtime is also vital.

Ultimately, the most critical consideration for schools is to adopt contextual, tailored approaches to wellbeing—promoting autonomy, psychological safety, and clear pathways for support. By valuing diversity, embracing positive uses of technology, and ensuring every student feels included and supported, schools can nurture a healthier, happier learning environment for all.

Matthew Williams
Head of Secondary

The post Student Wellbeing in Schools: Past, Present and Future first appeared on 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ College.

The design of the new uniform has been a collaborative effort, with our Marketing Department and the design team at Design Notion, working closely with our sports uniform committee and students, to design a uniform that honours the legacy of our teams over the past 70 years.

Incorporating a blend of the iconic stripes, the distinctive ‘V’, and the SMC star and crest, that have long been a symbol of our College’s sporting excellence, we’ve been able to create a uniform which not only echoes our tradition but provides a design with a modern edge which our students will be proud to wear while representing SMC. View our showcase video to follow the historical journey.

A variety of unique designs have been developed across all sports to create a cohesive look across the different codes and teams. This will enhance our visibility both on and off the field, and our 2025 students are excited to be among the first to wear the new uniform this year.

Uniforms will be available for purchase from Monday April 14th, the opening day of the new Dobson’s uniform shop located at 264 Grange Road, Flinders Park.

New weekly opening hours, including during term breaks are as follows:
• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am-5pm
• Saturday 9am – 12 noon

We are incredibly excited to see our students take to the various sporting arenas in these new uniforms and hope they wear them with pride. This marks a new chapter in our College’s sporting journey, and we can’t wait to see our teams in action! Stay tuned for further updates.

The post Game On: St Michael’s College unveils new look Co-Curricular Sports Uniform first appeared on 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ College.

Anxiety remains the primary concern among students in Years 7-12 seeking counselling. Other common issues include relationships, friendships, and family dynamics. This trend mirrors national data, as mental health awareness grows, leading to an increase in diagnoses of anxiety and depression across Australian schools.

Several factors may contribute to the rise in anxiety among young people. A key factor is the pressure students feel to succeed academically. Additional triggers include the use of mobile devices and social media, as well as challenges within families. It is important to acknowledge that some students are still dealing with the long-term effects of COVID-19, which has led to increased isolation, dependence on mobile devices, and a decline in social interaction.

How Can Parents and Caregivers Help?

Parents and caregivers play an important role in identifying mental health concerns early and fostering an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their emotions. It is normal for students to not always understand why they feel anxious. As a college and as parents, we must encourage healthy habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper sleep, as these can reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing. Additionally, spending time with others and engaging in physical activity can boost energy and confidence, helping students navigate daily challenges.

There are many resources and services available to support young people—such as counsellors, GPs, psychologists, and organizations like Kids Helpline, Headspace, and CAMHS—it is also important to simply listen and reaffirm that reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness. Early identification and intervention are key to supporting young people through difficult times. It is vital for students to know they are not alone, and that experiencing anxiety is common during adolescence. Anxiety does not discriminate by gender, age, culture, or school environment.

The College prioritises mental health in our training, pastoral programs, and counsellor development. We cannot tackle this issue alone and need the support of parents and caregivers to create a unified approach.

Key Actions for Supporting Young People with Anxiety:

1. Create a Supportive and Calm Environment – Provide a safe space where the child feels heard and understood. Listening is more important than speaking.
2. Encourage Open Communication – Discuss feelings openly and validate emotions without judgment. Avoid dominating the conversation, and allow the child to share at their own pace.
3. Teach Coping Strategies – Introduce relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, exercise, or spending time outdoors.
4. Establish Routines – Consistent routines provide structure and reduce uncertainty, helping ease anxiety. Engage in activities together, such as shared meals, walks, or hobbies.
5. Seek Professional Help if Needed – Consult a GP or counsellor if anxiety is severe or persistent.

For additional resources, please refer to this edition of School TV, which provides insightful videos and practical resources for addressing youth anxiety:

Matt Williams
Deputy Principal Pastoral and Head of Secondary

The post Student Wellbeing and Youth Anxiety first appeared on 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ College.