On Thursday 10 September, the College was alive with a sea of yellow ducks for R U OK? Day! This year, Ariana, College Wellbeing Captain, asked our students not to DUCK AWAY from conversations that may make a difference.
There are times when we may notice that someone is not OK, but many of us feel uncomfortable having these types of conversations. We need to remember that before we can look after someone else, we need to be in the right headspace ourselves. This means thinking about the best time to ask and choosing a location where both people will feel comfortable. Most importantly, we need to ask ourselves: are we ready to listen?
In the morning, students were greeted by leaders and staff and helped to build a wall of positive affirmations. Lunchtime activities brought everyone together on the avenue for music, games, a duck treasure hunt, a petting zoo, craft and face painting.
The day was a wonderful way of normalising conversations around mental health and reflecting the culture of care and connection that is so important at Kolbe. It encouraged students and staff to support one another, start meaningful conversations and remember that no one has to face challenges alone.
