Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Every Child Known. Every Family Valued.
At Cambrai Primary School and Preschool, wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do.
We believe children learn best when they feel safe, connected and valued. Wellbeing is not a separate program or lesson—it is woven through our relationships, learning environments and everyday experiences.
As a small rural school, every child is known. Every family matters. We take the time to understand each child’s strengths, challenges and interests, working alongside families to ensure every learner feels a genuine sense of belonging.
Our approach is guided by Kanyini—the understanding that we all have a responsibility to care for one another, our community and the places that sustain us. Through Kanyini, children develop a strong sense of being, belonging and becoming, learning that wellbeing grows through connection.
Growing Well Together
At Cambrai, we believe that happy children, happy families and happy towns grow together.
Schools are at the heart of rural communities, and wellbeing extends beyond the classroom. Through strong partnerships with families, local organisations and community groups, we work together to create an environment where children feel supported both at school and at home.
Our community library, playgroup, occasional care, preschool and school all play an important role in strengthening these connections, providing welcoming places where relationships grow across generations.
Wellbeing Through Relationships
Positive relationships are the foundation of learning.
Students are supported by adults who know them well and intentionally build trust, consistency and connection every day.
Our approach is underpinned by the Berry Street Education Model, helping children develop emotional regulation, resilience and positive relationships.
Students are also supported through:
- Zones of Regulation
- Interoception strategies
- restorative conversations
- strengths-based approaches
- explicit teaching of social and emotional skills
These approaches help children recognise emotions, develop self-awareness and build the confidence to manage challenges.
Individual Care and Support
Every child and family is unique, and sometimes additional support is needed to help children thrive.
Our dedicated Wellbeing Counsellor works alongside students, families and staff to provide early intervention, individual support and wellbeing planning. We also partner with Flinders University, regularly hosting pre-service social workers who work alongside children, families and educators, strengthening the wellbeing support available within our school community.
When children or families require additional assistance, we work collaboratively to connect them with appropriate external services. This may include referrals to health, mental health, disability, family support or allied health agencies, ensuring children and families receive the right support at the right time.
By working closely with families and community services, we aim to remove barriers to learning, strengthen wellbeing and help every child feel safe, supported and able to reach their potential.
Wellbeing Beyond the Classroom
At Cambrai, wellbeing is strengthened through opportunities to belong, contribute and connect.
Students experience wellbeing through:
- leadership opportunities
- Breakfast Club
- environmental learning at Meldanda
- sport and swimming
- community events
- arts and creative experiences
- caring for animals
- play and outdoor learning
These experiences help children develop confidence, friendships and a sense of purpose.
Our Library – The Heart of the Community
Our library is much more than a place to borrow books.
It is a welcoming community hub that supports literacy, wellbeing and lifelong learning for people of all ages.
Families gather for story time and early years programs, community members participate in events and workshops, and students discover the joy of reading in a safe and inviting environment.
The library reflects our belief that strong communities are built through shared learning, connection and belonging.
A Community That Cares
Wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility.
Students, families, staff and community members all play an important role in creating a school where people feel safe, respected and valued.
At Cambrai, we know that when children feel connected, they learn with confidence.
When families feel connected, communities become stronger.
And when communities thrive, children do too.