Post by St Edmund's College Wahroonga

One of the things that we prioritise at St. Edmund’s College Wahroonga is building and nurturing relationships and networks within our community. These relationships create opportunities, and inform our students and their families about organisations and services that may be able to support them with their goals and support needs. In terms 3 and 4 this year, we have been fortunate to collaborate with WeFlex in a pilot program where some of our students participated in personal training sessions on a Monday morning before school. These sessions, held onsite on our field and outdoor gym equipment, aimed to provide students with new skills, confidence, and strategies to use movement and exercise to support their emotional regulation needs and facilitate their focus for learning in class. Our WeFlex trainer, Jaden, has shared some feedback about his experience working with our students this year: “Working with St Edmund’s through the WeFlex program has been a truly rewarding experience. The school’s commitment to student wellbeing and enjoyment shines through with every interaction with both the students and the teachers.  The Training sessions were consistently well attended and respected, creating an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and excited to participate. Seeing the joy, confidence, and smiles that fill each session is something that’s hard to put into words. The students’ motivation and steady progression reflect not only their own dedication but also the strong culture and leadership created by St Edmund’s. I and WeFlex are proud to collaborate with such a passionate and student-focused school community. For anyone interested in learning more about the WeFlex program, we would be delighted to share further information.” Additionally, one of our teachers spoke about the important role that movement and meaningful physical experiences have in preparing students for schoolwork. They noticed the students in the pilot program were motivated by the sessions and looking forward to it. This teacher also said: “to have seen (the students) happy faces as they ran excitedly to (personal trainer) Jaden yesterday was a highlight of my day.” When reflecting on classes on a Monday after the sessions, another teacher has commented “I have noticed improvement in his learning focus and contributions to class discussions, gradually improving through the term.” Our Occupational Therapist, Morgan Meyer, has created a short video to highlight the wonderful impact that our collaboration with WeFlex has had. Her Allied Health lens showcases just some of the many benefits that St Edmund’s College have been so grateful to receive, thanks to WeFlex’s support. Please reach out with any questions or other collaboration ideas to Lisa Duffy, Family Engagement Officer at St. Edmund’s College Wahroonga: [email protected]

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