Wellbeing is at the heart of who we are

At Encounter, wellbeing is not something we do—it is who we are. 

We believe every student deserves to feel safe, connected, and empowered to thrive. While we explicitly teach wellbeing through dedicated curriculum, its true impact is felt in every aspect of school life. From the way we speak with one another, to how we shape our policies, guide behaviour, run camps, and build community—wellbeing is woven into our culture. We recognise that academic success and emotional wellbeing are inseparable, and we walk alongside each student with compassion, encouragement, and high expectations as they navigate the journey of becoming young adults. 

Wellbeing Curriculum

At Encounter, we believe that true learning happens when students feel seen, valued, and supported. Wellbeing is not an add-on—it is embedded throughout every learning experience and reflected in the authentic relationships we build with our students. Our purpose is to help every young person feel connected, develop a sense of belonging, and cultivate the inner resources they need to thrive. We understand that a young person's social-emotional development must be considered as equal to their learning and academic needs.  

As part of our commitment to wellbeing, all Middle and Senior School students engage in a dedicated Positive Education Enhanced Curriculum (PEEC) each week. More than a lesson, this is a space where students learn to understand themselves, build positive relationships, and develop lifelong skills like optimism, resilience, and gratitude. Delivered by home class teachers, PEEC is woven into a broader pastoral care approach that supports the whole student.

Wellbeing in Action

Encounter prides itself on its culture that is welcoming and inclusive. Proactive Wellbeing goes a long way to helping our young people feel connected, providing a support system for students navigating life's ups and downs. We intentionally and actively create opportunities for students and staff to come together and engage in activities that build our wellbeing and connection with each other.

Our SWAG Team (Student Wellbeing Action Group) is instrumental in supporting student-centred events and providing student agency. This includes our annual recognition of RUOK? Day, being involved in events such as Night on the Green, and taking action such as cooking food hampers for families in need. Encounter’s unique House system, and weekly SHINE are pillars of our Encounter experience that reinforce and celebrate our positive culture of connection and community.

Building partnerships within our community is essential in equipping our young people with the tools needed to thrive in the world. We intentionally invite a range of guest speakers to present to our students, such as ‘Brain Training’ to equip students with study and wellbeing skills, ‘Lovebites’ to allow students to explore safe and respectful relationships and ‘RAP’ Road Awareness Program to hear firsthand the lived experience of those who have been impacted by road accidents.