Greetings!

I hope this message finds you well. As the Counsellor here at Pacific, I am thrilled to connect with you through this newsletter to shed light on the role that school counsellors play in shaping the holistic development of students. My primary mission as the College Counsellor is to foster the emotional, social, and academic wellbeing of our students. Often seen as a friendly face around the College, I am here not only to address crises that may occur, but also to provide proactive support and guidance to our students, staff, and parent community.

Adolescence is a period of immense growth and change, filled with both excitement and challenge. As your child manoeuvres through these formative years, they may encounter various issues such as academic stress, peer pressure and personal identity exploration. This is where I come in. My role is to serve as a steady anchor, providing a safe space for students to express themselves, explore their feelings, and develop the resilience needed to overcome obstacles. Engaging with a school counsellor is not reserved for students facing crises; it is a proactive step towards overall wellbeing. Here are a few reasons why your child should consider connecting with me:

• Emotional and Social Wellbeing - Navigating the complex landscape of emotions and social dynamics can be overwhelming. I provide a confidential space for students to express their feelings, explore coping mechanisms, and develop healthy relationships with peers.
• Conflict Resolution - Interpersonal conflicts are inevitable in any school environment. I work with students to develop effective communication skills, fostering a culture of empathy and understanding.
• Personal Development - Beyond academics, I am committed to nurturing the personal growth of each student. Through guidance and encouragement, I help them develop a strong sense of self, resilience and a positive mindset.

It is important to note, that the role of a school counsellor has a level of confidentiality that supports it. This ensures that students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns, knowing that our conversations remain private unless there is a risk of harm to themselves or others. For our Junior College students, I will seek parental permission before connecting with their young person, whereas our Middle and Senior College students can access the school counsellor without parental permission. It is important to note that we aim to have parents, students, and the school all working together, so building the entire ‘support team’ is always what we are working towards.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out by email bmacaulay@pacluth.qld.edu.au or phoning the College main reception.

Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Support