Care Week at Good Shepherd Lutheran College is a cherished annual tradition that highlights the power of compassion, connection, and community spirit.
This year the College, once again, came together to celebrate the importance of caring for one another and giving back, through a week of heartwarming activities and purposeful fundraising.
At the heart of this year’s Care Week was the theme “Growing GEMS” a reference to the College’s wellbeing framework based on the Resilience Project.
GEMS stands for Gratitude, Empathy, and Mindfulness, three essential qualities that, along with emotional literacy, connection, and physical health, help cultivate a positive mindset and build resilience in young people.
Counsellor and Care Week Coordinator, Ms Marg Hall, explains, “Care Week is not only about raising money for worthy causes; it’s about fostering a culture of kindness. We want students to understand that small, everyday acts of care, listening, helping, showing gratitude, can have a big impact. Our goal is to nurture hearts as well as minds.”
One of the highlights of the week was the College’s participation in the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea, which raised over $2000. But more than a fundraiser, it was a moment of togetherness.
“It was beautiful to see staff and families come together sharing stories, homemade treats, and time with each other,” Ms Hall said. “It reminded us that giving is not just financial, it’s about being present and supporting each other through life’s challenges.”
Throughout the week, students of all ages engaged in activities that encouraged them to think beyond themselves.
From buying cupcakes and spider drinks for charity, to simply offering a kind word or helping hand, students were inspired to notice and respond to the needs around them.
The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs and provides evidence-based, practical wellbeing strategies to build resilience.
Year 5 Biggest Bake Sale – students understand the importance of giving back to the community and were keen to raise as many dollars as possible for the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea.
Random acts of kindness were embraced across the College. One especially joyful moment was the Teddy Bears Picnic, where younger students bonded with their senior buddies over games, laughter, and a shared sense of belonging.
The Library also became a hub of compassion and creativity.
Head of Library, Ms Michelle Nye, shared, “We wanted the library to be a safe and happy space where kindness could flourish. Our Storytime Express saw staff reading their favourite children’s books, often dressed in fun costumes, bringing joy and connection to our students. Craft activities gave children a way to express emotions and explore empathy through art.”
Importantly, the focus on care extended beyond the students to include families.
“We recognise that building emotional wellbeing is a community effort,” College Principal Anthony Dyer said.
“That’s why we’re committed to equipping parents with tools and strategies to support their children’s emotional growth at home. When schools and families work together, the impact is powerful.”
With almost $3500 raised for charity and countless moments of compassion shared, this year’s Care Week at Good Shepherd Lutheran College reminded everyone of the incredible power of caring for one another, and how, when we act with empathy and love, we can help create a stronger, more connected community for all.
