The Big Sister Experience was a comprehensive, day-long wellbeing workshop aimed at our female students from Year 5 to Year 10. Each year level individually engaged in a workshop titled ‘Exploring Self’, delving into crucial topics including self-love, self-care, body image, nutrition, and fostering a sense of sisterhood. The girls gained valuable insights into the significance of self-care and self-love, along with practical strategies for implementing these principles into their lives. Building on that, they explored techniques for developing a positive body image and took part in a variety of activities designed to boost their self-esteem. The workshop also featured a module on nutrition, highlighting the importance of balanced eating and debunking common misconceptions about what constitutes a 'healthy' diet.

To conclude the day, the girls participated in activities aimed at strengthening their bonds and embracing the concept of being 'sisters in Christ', where they uplift and support one another. All students who participated in the workshops filled out pre and post surveys. The findings demonstrated a notable improvement in both wellbeing and psychoeducational outcomes across all covered subjects. The workshop received an average rating of 8.9/10 across all year levels, indicating their enjoyment. Students also gave an average rating of 8.8/10 for the usefulness of the topics discussed.

Below are some comments from students reflecting on their experience, as well as a comment by a lead presenter from the company:

“Today gave me a very big impact” - Yr 5 student

“Love your program, keep up the good work. Please come back again and teach us more, I enjoyed it so much thank you.” - Yr 5 student 

“This has made me feel more confident” - Yr 7 student .

“It really made me aware of my self worth” - Yr 8 student 

“I really enjoyed this workshop. It was fun, creative, made me feel really happy the entire time and very loved.” Yr 9 student 

“I just wanted to say this workshop has been so good it’s the absolute best probably my favourite workshop we’ve ever done and I just loved this so much.” - Yr 9 student

“I really enjoyed it I felt like we were all sisters and felt really Safe and comfortable.” - Yr 9 student 

“Thank you for your lecture, we learnt a lot about our mental and physical well-being and we’d love to have another one in the near future.” - Yr 10 student

Yous made such a good impact today it really brightened up my mood and i would definitely use all the info and advice i got today” - Yr 8 student.

"This past week working with the girls across Year 5 to 10 has been an absolutely incredible experience. It has been a heartwarming reminder to see the immense joy that comes from the program, solidifying the spark and passion in us facilitators to witness the changes made in each cohort day after day. Their enthusiasm, growth, and positive energy are a testament to this school and the energy these girls exude is truly inspiring." - Molly Back, Big Sister Facilitator.

Nardine Saad

Wellbeing Officer