In contemporary education, the importance of student wellbeing is increasingly recognised as foundational to academic success and lifelong flourishing. Wellbeing science, drawing from positive psychology, emphasizes the cultivation of strengths, resilience, emotional regulation, and positive relationships. When embedded thoughtfully into educational practice, this science aligns powerfully with the restorative practices and values already inherent in Catholic education.
Restorative practices—centred on healing harm, restoring relationships, and building community—offer a practical approach to wellbeing that resonates deeply with Catholic teachings. Rather than focusing solely on punishment or correction, restorative methods prioritise empathy, accountability, and reconciliation. These practices mirror the Gospel imperative to seek forgiveness, offer compassion, and build peace.
At the heart of Catholic education lies a commitment to forming the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This holistic approach is deeply compatible with the aims of wellbeing science. The Catholic tradition brings a unique richness to this work through its Gospel values: compassion, dignity, service, justice, and above all, love. These values are not only moral guideposts but powerful interventions in themselves. When students are treated with inherent dignity, when communities are built on mutual respect, and when love is the lens through which conflict is viewed, wellbeing is not just enhanced—it is transformed.
Positive relationships are consistently shown to be among the strongest predictors of wellbeing. In the Catholic context, the building of authentic, loving relationships is central—not peripheral—to faith. Love is not an abstract ideal; it is the lived expression of God’s presence in community. As Jesus teaches, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). This call to love is more than sentiment—it is the foundation of a flourishing school culture.
At St Brigid’s Catholic College, wellbeing is nurtured through a restorative approach that prioritizes respectful relationships and community building. The College’s wellbeing program integrates practices such as restorative circles and positive education, encouraging students to take ownership of their actions and repair harm through dialogue and empathy. Each term we focus on an element of Catholic mission. This approach inspires students to embody values of compassion, stewardship, and courage—core to both the school’s identity and the legacy of St Brigid herself. Through initiatives like Youth Ministry and service-based learning, students are empowered to connect faith with action, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging. These interventions collectively support the development of flourishing students who are not only academically engaged but also spiritually grounded and socially responsible.
As a Catholic School we are uniquely positioned to lead in integrating wellbeing science with spiritual formation. By rooting restorative practices in Gospel values and building communities where love is the guiding principle, Catholic education can foster environments where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Ms Tegan Bayliss
Acting Assistant Principal, Evangelisation and Catechesis
