Wellbeing

At Parry School, student wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do. Like all NSW public schools, we are committed to creating safe, supportive and inclusive learning environments where every young person can connect, grow and succeed. Our approach aligns with the NSW Department of Education’s Wellbeing Framework, ensuring that students are supported across their cognitive, physical, social and emotional development.

Because our students often arrive with complex needs or disrupted school experiences, wellbeing is embedded into every part of our daily practice. All Parry staff are part of our wellbeing team, recognising that every adult plays an important role in supporting each student’s sense of security, trust and belonging.

How We Support Wellbeing at Parry

Our wellbeing structures are intentionally strong and highly responsive. Staff meet every afternoon to discuss each student’s progress, identify emerging concerns and ensure supports are timely, individualised and consistent. This regular communication means adjustments can be put in place quickly and collaboratively, supporting students to feel understood and set up for success.

The wellbeing team is led by the Principal, working closely with the Deputy Principal, School Counsellor and Student Support Officer. Together, we develop strategies that build resilience, help students regulate emotions, develop social skills and re-engage with their learning. We also work closely with external agencies, including Headspace, Youth Insearch, and individual allied health professionals, to ensure support is coordinated and holistic.

Wellbeing Programs and Initiatives

Our wellbeing programs change year to year, responding to the needs of the current student cohort. Activities may include:

resilience-building and emotional regulation programs
social skills development
mindfulness and relaxation strategies
respectful relationships and community-building activities
physical wellbeing initiatives
access to mental health and therapeutic supports

We also welcome visiting services and programs that strengthen student wellbeing and connection to community.

Our Commitment

With small student numbers, Parry School is uniquely placed to provide personalised, wraparound support. By building strong relationships and creating a safe, predictable environment, we empower every student to rebuild confidence, develop strategies for success and move towards positive pathways both at school and beyond.

School Counsellor

Parry School is supported by a School Counsellor who attends one and a half days each week. The counsellor provides students with a calm, confidential setting where they can talk through challenges, build coping strategies and receive emotional support. As part of a collaborative approach, the counsellor connects with families, home schools and relevant outside services when needed, helping to coordinate care and ensure students are well supported across all settings. They may also communicate with external practitioners such as Headspace and private mental health professionals to assist with ongoing plans, referrals and safety considerations, always working within ethical guidelines and with the student’s wellbeing at the centre.

Student Support Officer

Our Student Support Officer (SSO) plays an important role in supporting the wellbeing and engagement of students at Parry School. The SSO works closely with staff and students throughout the day, helping young people settle into the school environment, develop positive routines and build practical skills for managing emotions and relationships. They provide informal check-ins, assist during learning activities and wellbeing sessions, and help create a calm, predictable environment that supports students to feel safe and connected. The SSO also maintains strong communication with the broader wellbeing team, sharing insights that assist with planning, early intervention and individualised support for each student.

Need support for your child's wellbeing?

Get in touch to talk about the right support for your child.

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Additional learning support

Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.

Our principal and staff

Get to know our principal and staff, who work together to create a positive school culture.