The Wellbeing Program
At John’s, we take a holistic approach to student wellbeing as we view wellbeing as a multidimensional construct which impacts, and is impacted by, all aspects of a student’s life.
The Wellbeing Program at St John’s College is overseen by the Vice Warden and managed by the Dean of Student Wellbeing.
Our approach to fostering student wellbeing is underpinned by positive psychological theories, latest research and evidence of best practice, and feedback from our students themselves.
The different domains of wellbeing can be encapsulated through the acronym SPIRE:
During their time at St John’s College, our students grow themselves intellectually, emotionally, through sport and cultural extracurricular activities, and do so as part of a supportive community.
We have multiple levels of support for our students at John’s and we have a ‘no wrong door policy’ which means we encourage students to speak with whichever member of staff or student leader they feel most comfortable, whether it’s the Warden, Vice Warden, Dean of Student Wellbeing, Chaplain, Dean of Studies, Associate Deans, or the Registrar.
We have five staff members living onsite. Residential staff and RAs are on duty each evening and weekend. This means there is always someone to turn to for advice or support.
Beginning in O Week, students are provided with evidence-based training on issues such as alcohol and other drug use, respectful relationships, and positive mental health strategies. This list is not exhaustive, and the training is always well-received, as evidenced by the positive feedback from our students.
You will learn more about the Wellbeing program during O Week.
The Residential Advisor (RA) team
The Residential Advisors (RAs) are student leadership positions, appointed by the College in consultation with the student body.
RAs are selected based on their leadership abilities, enthusiasm, and dedication to wellbeing. They typically act as a first point of contact and refer students needing support to the appropriate professionals.
The team is led by the Senior Residential Advisors (SRAs) and the Dean of Student Wellbeing. There is a thorough training program to prepare RAs for the role, with training in first aid, mental health, emergency management and response, ethical bystander and first responder skills.
From your first day at college, you will be greeted by your RAs who will help you settle into your new home away from home and will create a positive culture within your block. Your RAs will live in your block with you and will be there to support you throughout the year.
Chaplaincy
St John’s College, as an Anglican institution, encourages every student to navigate their spiritual journey freely, recognising the significance of spiritual wellbeing as a crucial facet of ‘holistic’ wellbeing – i.e. the mind, body and spirit. St John’s embraces the diversity of the community, recognising that not everyone ay identify as Anglican/Christian, or follow any specific faith tradition.
Students who would like to discuss spiritual matters further are welcome to meet with the College Chaplain, Reverend Samuel Dow, who will provide space for exploring such questions in a non-judgmental and supportive manner.
Throughout the year the College Chaplain will curate a range of chapel services, contemplative/mindfulness resources and occasions where students can engage and reflect on their own spiritual wellbeing.
Community
Being part of a vibrant community is a central aspect of overall wellbeing, and the St John’s community is known for being tight-knit, inclusive and free of cliques.
Supported by the Dean of Student Wellbeing, the Community Convenor organises events and activities focused on wellbeing each week to support students physically and emotionally. Activities are designed to forge strong friendships, help students relax, practice mindfulness, and have fun.
Wellness Week takes place each semester, focusing on a specific theme of the students’ choosing.
The College also offers volunteering opportunities throughout the year as a way for students to engage with and give back to the local community.
Our students are enthusiastic about cheering on their College peers in sports and curricular activities. You will always see a large sea of choc and gold when a Johnian (aka Jabba) is competing!
Another special aspect of the college culture is our dining hall etiquette. Students eat all meals together in the dining hall, which is a phone free zone. Students fill the next available seat in the dining hall. This practice gives students the space to form deep connections with all members of the community.