Mental Wellbeing Projects – Lutheran School Wagga Wagga

Lutheran School Wagga Wagga will deliver an integrated, school-wide approach to mental wellbeing to support students, staff and families, recognising the increasing complexity of student mental health needs.

Approximately 20 per cent of students are neurodiverse, with growing numbers experiencing anxiety, low mood and other mental health challenges. With limited local services and long wait times, early identification and school-based support play a critical role in students’ wellbeing, learning and sense of belonging.

The school’s approach focuses on building internal capacity and strengthening everyday supports through the following initiatives.

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) will be delivered to all teaching and support staff, equipping them to recognise and respond to common mental health concerns and crises. The training builds staff confidence to provide early, informed support and to guide families toward professional help while they await specialist care.

A Peer Support Program will foster cross-age friendships, leadership and connection among students. The program aims to reduce social isolation, normalise help-seeking and strengthen school culture through empathy, respect and shared responsibility.

The Resilience Project (TRP) will deliver a year-long, evidence-based wellbeing curriculum centred on Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM). The program supports the development of emotional literacy, resilience and positive coping skills for students, while also benefiting staff and families through a shared wellbeing framework.

Together, these initiatives aim to create a supportive, inclusive and resilient school environment where all students feel safe, understood and able to thrive.