No Images? Click here Dear Celebrating One Year of the PLC LighthouseThe PLC Lighthouse has been and will continue to be an integral part of the School’s universal approach to wellbeing; providing an anchor for students, staff and the PLC community to learn, experience and practise scientifically-based wellbeing pathways. We are always looking to improve the range of programmes and activities available to students and the PLC community at the Lighthouse. At the end of last year, we conducted a wellbeing survey for girls from Years 5 to 12 to collect feedback on what aspects of the Lighthouse they loved and what they would like to see improved Learning Life Skills One of the key, recurring pieces of feedback received in the survey was that the girls wanted their learning to include more practical components. They wanted more opportunities to develop real life skills that they could put to use when they leave school and enter the work force. Using this information, we have started developing programmes and activities in addition to our curricular and co-curricular offerings. Creating Job Opportunities for BoardersWe are currently in the process of offering Lighthouse administrative work to Year 11 and Year 12 Boarders as part-time jobs during the school term. This will provide girls with life skills and real work experience. We are aware that boarders don’t have the same opportunities to access part-time jobs during the school term. As part of the job application process, the girls had to develop their resumes, write cover letters and prepare for an interview. We are hiring up to eight boarding students who will commence in Term 2. Lighthouse Learning Flexi ProgrammeThis term, we introduced the Lighthouse Learning Flexi Programme, a 50-minute rotating session teaching students from Years 7 - 9 health and wellbeing skills in a practical way. In each session, girls rotate through a series of different activities with their House Tutor Group, including Expressive Arts, Yoga, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Mindful Meditation, Healthy Food Preparation and a Fitness Circuit. This gives the students an opportunity to learn health and wellbeing skills in a practical way while having fun in the Lighthouse building (and surrounds).
Healthy Food Preparation Healthy eating and nutrition classes, teaching students about the 'mood – food' connection. Expressive Arts Students practice being calm and quiet, allowing their emotions and mood to be expressed in a mandala. Lighthouse Facilities Usage Over the YearHolidays Are More Important Than you ThinkSchool holidays are just around the corner! Students should use the time to rest, reflect and enjoy the company of family and friends, as well as pursuing personal interests or projects. What The Research Tells UsScientists from the Icahn School of Medicine, University of California and Harvard found that just six days of holiday triggers genetic changes which dampens stress, boosts the immune system and lowers levels of proteins linked to dementia and depression. And some of the beneficial effects can still be apparent one month later! Clinical psychologist, Deborah Mulhern, told ABC News that when you don’t unwind and get away from “external stresses” (like a heavy workload), it gets harder for your body to relax.
Some of the health benefits of taking a break during the holidays:
Holidays and BoredomAfter a full term at school (action-packed days and weekends), students may feel unsure about what to do with their free time. Over the term, students' lives have been structured and routine-driven; taking that away can be unsettling for parents and children alike.Tips for Parents by PLC Junior School Psychologist, Danay Savva
A Message to Years 11 and 12 Students from Wellbeing Captain, ArabellaThe holidays are especially important for the Year 11 and Year 12 girls who have exams after the holidays.
Enjoy your April break and we look forward to seeing you all energised and ready for another great term! Expressive Arts in the LighthouseThere is mounting evidence that using art as therapy can help to reduce stress and encourages self-expression through painting, drawing and 3D artwork. ‘Colour My World’ is a Lighthouse creative group activity that promotes physical and emotional wellbeing and runs after school on Mondays and Thursdays.
Current neuroscience research is suggesting various art therapy techniques may prove beneficial in activating various areas of the brain. Such benefits include “reducing the stress response, regulating disturbing emotions, increasing a sense of mastery and control and expanding relation interconnectedness” (Hass-Cohen, 2008, cited in Husky 2009).
Mindfulness Workshops for ParentsMindfulness and EmotionsJoin PLC Psychologist, Jessica Lethbridge over four workshops and learn how to apply mindfulness skills to daily situations in which we need to tolerate distress and manage our emotions effectively. This series of workshops are open to PLC parents and only have seven spaces available.
Dates: May 29, June 5, June 12 and June 19 (please make sure that you can attend all sessions before
booking). Service Opportunities Coming UpBindaring Red Cross Clothing SaleWe are collecting good quality clean clothes, shoes, bags, scarves and jewellery for men, women and children for this year’s Bindaring Red Cross Clothing Sale at Claremont Showground on Saturday May 18.
Collection boxes can also be found at the View St and McNeil St receptions. Help is needed sorting on sale day. Please register your interest at bindaringclothingsale.com.au or email bindaringsale@redcross.org.au. All proceeds raised from the Sale help fund vital Red Cross services. Lighthouse App of the Month: Rain Rain Sleep SoundsHaving trouble switching off at night? Rain, Rain is the perfect sleep sound app, offering a generous selection of rain, nature and white noise sounds to lull you into a full night's sleep. Rain options include everything from a gentle shower to a cracking thunderstorm, while nature sounds include streams, ocean waves and winds. |