The third Mental Health and Wellbeing Day the school celebrates and acknowledges during the year is the nationally recognised R u OK? Day. We promote good mental health through positive behaviours here at Peter Moyes and the lessons of R u OK? Day emphasise the message that we frequently share with students. It is important to discuss how you are feeling and that it is okay if you are not okay all of the time. It is important to talk about your feelings and share how you are feeling with others. We promote the importance of asking for support from those who are able to provide it.
This year the Senior School Prefects decided to provide free hot chocolates at recess for a lucky 150 students. With the help of the café they lovingly prepared the hot chocolates and passed them out among the students. All School staff were treated to a lovely Morning Tea generously sponsored by the Chaplains.
During House Tutorial time, Senior School participated in its inaugural R u OK? Day Picnic. The Senior School sat together on the grass and enjoyed some amazing picnic spreads. One group of students even had a melted chocolate fondue fountain. Senior School staff enjoyed a small lunch from Mrs Shaw in appreciate for all their efforts. They sat on their picnic blankets in among the students and participated in the games. Everyone really seemed to get into the spirit of the event, some groups playing picnic games such as Giant Jenga and monopoly!
Below are two student reflections about the day.
On Friday 8th September, the School hosted activities and events that aimed to promote the mental awareness day, “R u OK day”. Personally, I found this day to be tremendously beneficial and I would class it as the best R u OK day yet. Walking into School, the atmosphere had immediately shifted, following the vibrant yellow/orange posters were smiling individuals who were asking the question “R u OK?” This positive start to the day was only followed by more enjoyable activities. Recess time rolled around and hot chocolates began to be distributed throughout the social groups seated all around the outdoor vicinity. The Senior School was given the opportunity to bring in snacks and treats to eat and share in our extended lunchtime picnic. During the picnic, I noticed that friends had time to extend themselves further from their social group, joining other groups and building new strong friendships. Towards the end of the picnic, games and activities such as the three legged race and football were set up for Senior School students to participate in. These activities all resulted in team building and team spirit. Before the day ended, myself and many others walked away holding a personal note and a flower that was encouraging and uplifting. This day was a huge success and anyone involved should be commended for their contributions.
Written by Olivia Puzey (Year 11)
On 8th September, Peter Moyes held its annual R U OK? Day! R U OK? Day is a mental health and wellbeing awareness day which aims to encourage and inspire everyone to meaningfully connect with those around them and support them in any way possible. For this year’s R U OK? Day, Senior School participated in a picnic with all the essentials such as foods, drinks and a bunch of fun picnic games. There was also competitions in which students could gather and bunch of their friends taking a photo making a pledge stating “Ears to listen” or “I’m going to remember to ask people if they’re ok”; with the best photo winning a prize. Hot Chocolates were given out by the Prefects to the students as a gesture and a perfect example that little kindness can go a long way. The day was an absolute success, filled with kindness, joy and unity. On behalf of all the Senior school students, we would like to thank Ms Lamers, Heads of House and all the 2017 Prefects for holding such a fantastic and memorable day.
Written by Hayley Cowup (Year 12 Public Relations Prefect)