Message from the Head of the Junior School
As we enter October, Mental Health Awareness Month, we are reminded of the importance of caring for the whole girl; her mind, body, heart, relationships, faith and sense of self. As a girls’ school, the emotional wellbeing of our girls is as important as their academic, physical and social development.
The need for this conversation is increasingly evident. UNICEF South Africa reports that 60% of children and young people surveyed said they had needed mental health support during the previous year, with the need slightly higher among female respondents. These statistics remind us that we need to equip our girls from an early age with the confidence, language and resilience to understand their emotions, seek help and support one another.
Our Centre for Growth will facilitate a range of age-appropriate initiatives for both our girls and staff, focusing on mental health, emotional wellbeing, resilience, relationships and knowing when to seek support. Our teachers will also be invited to wear green on designated days as a visible symbol of our commitment to mental health awareness and wellbeing.
There are also many simple ways our girls can take care of their mental health: talking to someone they trust when they are worried, spending time with people who make them feel safe and valued, getting enough sleep, being active and spending time outdoors, taking healthy breaks from screens and social media, making time for activities they enjoy, learning to name and express their feelings, and, most importantly, asking for help when they need it. We want our girls to understand that asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of courage.
As parents and educators, one of the greatest gifts we can give our girls is the assurance that they never have to navigate difficult moments alone. Let us continue creating homes and classrooms where our girls feel safe to speak, ask questions, make mistakes and seek support.
May October remind every St Mary’s girl that her wellbeing matters, her voice matters and she matters. Together, let us continue raising girls who are courageous, compassionate and confident in who they are; girls who will not only fly but will use their wings to lift others too.
