Student Well-Being

At Marsden we believe that a positive attitude and sound values, together with a broad curriculum stimulates the intellectual, cultural, sporting, social and spiritual development of every individual.  Our students are encouraged to find their strengths, exercise their talents and realize their dreams.

How do we promote student well-being?

Here are some examples from our school calendar

Year 7 – 11 Activities Day 

Activities Day is a fun day early in the year where students and staff enjoy time together.

Year 8 Camp

Y8 spend a week away in the Nelson region in February

Year 10 camp

Y10 are challenged for a week at the Outdoor Pursuits Centre in March

Year 13 Leadership Camp

The year begins for Y13 students with two days of seminars and workshops (eg Communicate Consultants work with our students on leadership styles, collaborative teamwork etc).  Students set  goals and plan for the year ahead.  It is a time to brainstorm the whole school activities that senior committees will run throughout the year (eg Sciences week, Cultural week, Library week).  It is also a time to set personal academic goals.

The House system gives students a sense of belonging

Competitive house events throughout the year are a great source of pride and fun.  Senior students lead house activities and connections across all year groups are strengthened.

Senior school leaders

Senior students organise entertaining activities throughout the year for other students.
Eg Primary school committee organized the Term 1 teddy bear’s picnic.
Senior School Committee – senior school quiz night
Music Committee - activities at music camp

Learning Leadership Programme

Through stories and examples, students explore various aspect of leadership, such as EQ (emotional quotient), courage, integrity and motivation.  Learning leadership occurs several times a term in form and tutor groups.  It provides opportunities for students to discover and understand their own leadership strengths.

PPP : Positive, purposeful people

Positive purposeful people is the theme for our Year 11, 12 and 13 positive psychology and resilience course. Modules include working with Martin Seligman’s survey of character strengths, studying confrontation and the practice of forgiving others, showing gratitude and discussing techniques to keep a positive mindset.

Bounceback

Bounceback is a programme run in form and tutor time which offers practical strategies to help students cope with the complexity of their everyday lives and learn to ‘bounce back’ when they experience sadness, difficulties, frustrations and hard times.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award

All Y10 students work towards their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award. This introduces our students to exciting, positive, challenging and enjoyable activities. Students give service, develop a skills, participate in an adventurous journey and take part in physical recreation.

Keeping in touch

Father-daughter breakfasts, mother daughter dinners and lunches are great links between school and home.

The Deans communicate each week with parents by email with information about upcoming events for their daughters.