We are committed to a school climate of genuine positive wellbeing for all, as we know that we achieve better results when we feel welcomed, supported, safe and cared about.
At Footscray High School, we believe that students and staff will teach and learn in a safe and positive environment. We also believe that student wellbeing and learning are deeply interwoven and that student wellbeing is the responsibility of all members of our school community.
At Footscray High School, we offer a positive, safe and supportive school environment so that each child can reach her or his personal best. We take a whole school approach to wellbeing with our Positive Behaviours protocols and expectations. Our approach is preventative and proactive, through our culture, our commitment to unconditional positive regard and the programs that are embedded in our curriculum.
There are also times when we need to provide high-level support for students with complex needs. This support is led by our Student Wellbeing and Engagement Teams and our learning support team, supported by our connections to relevant external agencies and services nearby.
We are a proudly inclusive school. We are committed to supporting the diverse needs, thoughts and experiences of the young people in our care.
Wellbeing and Inclusion Contacts
Our Wellbeing and Inclusion Team are managed and supported by Principal Team Members who can also be contacted to provide consultation and support.
Principal Team
- Vicki Tentzoglidis – Campus Principal Barkly Campus
- Kellie Catanese – Assistant Principal Barkly Campus
Wellbeing and Inclusion Team
- Kimberly Kelley – Head Of Wellbeing- Whole School
- Carly Clement – Leading Teacher Head of Disability and Inclusion (Senior Campus)
- Jane Bailey – Leading Teacher Head of Disability and Inclusion (Junior Campses)
- Aadya Nigam – Wellbeing Counsellor Kinnear Campus
- Cindy Melksham – Wellbeing Counsellor Junior Campuses
Students and Families can contact our Wellbeing Team via Compass.
External Support Services
In this time of uncertainty students and staff may want to access the following support services on weekends, school holidays and outside normal school hours. These services are available online and you can also speak directly to a support person via the telephone.
Headspace
You can access supports between 3pm and 10pm every day via webchat or phone.
Phone: 1800 650 890
Website: headspace.org.au
Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service
If you’re a young person aged 12-25 or a family member seeking mental health support, we’re here to help. You don’t need a referral to contact us – every door is the right door.
24/7 support line: 1800 888 320
Website: pymhws.org.au
Lifeline
You can access supports 24/7 via webchat, text, or phone.
Webchat: lifeline.org.au
Phone: 13 11 14
Text: 0477 13 11 14
Sexual Health Victoria Supports
Appointments with Sexual Health Victoria can be made online or via phone.
Phone: 1800 013 952
Website: shvic.org.au
Kids Helpline
You can access Web Counselling Supporting 24/7 via Webchat or phone.
Webchat: kidshelpline.com.au
Phone: 1800 55 1800
Housing Support – Unison
We are here to help and are available on the phone from 9am to 5pm, weekdays. We also welcome drop ins from 9am to 1pm, weekdays.
Please note: We are closed on weekends and public holidays.
For afterhours support, you can call 1800 825 955.
Phone Support: 03 9689 2777
Drop In: 112-122 Victoria Street, Seddon VIC 3011
Website: unison.org.au
Frontyard (Melbourne City Mission)
If you require urgent housing assistance, there are 2 supports available.
- If you are aged 12-24, please contact Frontyard on 03 9977 0077 or free call 1800 800 531.
- Adults and families, contact 1800 825 955 to get a referral.
Website: mcm.org.au
ReachOut
You access ReachOut for various mental health supports and information.
They also have peer workers available to chat online from 3pm to 8pm (Mon-Thu) and 11:30am-4:30pm (Fri).
Website: au.reachout.com
Sexual Assault Crisis Line
The crisis line operates from 5 pm on weeknights to 9 am the next day, and during the same hours on weekends and public holidays.
Phone: 1800 806 292
Website: sacl.com.au
Association for Children with a Disability
A resource for parents of students with additional needs.
Website: acd.org.au
SPELD Victoria
Learning disabilities, assessments, information, program and advocacy.
Website: speldvic.org.au