Getting Connected
Getting Connected is an initiative developed by ADRA Australia that supports* and links+ schools willing to take a whole school community approach to building resilience qualities in young people.
Resilience is the ability to cope successfully in the face of adversity. When life tragedies strike, resilient people have the ability to bounce back.
We know that young people who are connected to their school and community will have a greater chance of avoiding risk behaviours that are affecting lives and relationships. “New research from the Queensland University of Technology has found a link between how well a teenager feels connected to their school, and adolescent mental health. Professor Ian Shochet says the study found a teenager's sense of belonging to their school has the strongest link to depression, after prior mental illness.”
http://abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200611/s1787712.htm
Getting Connected provides:
- A whole school ‘resilience audit’ identifying current initiatives functioning in the school. The audit provides awareness for schools potential growth areas from a whole school approach to building resilience.
- Recommended tools and programs that will continue to develop resilience elements in the school.
- A web-based support network for schools with similar goals.
* We support schools by offering proven tools and professional advice.
+ We link schools by sharing news and examples of best practice in the area of resilience and school connectedness.
Visit the Getting Connected website, www.gettingconnected.org.au, to find more about:
- What resilience qualities are
- Up-to-date information on today’s youth
- Recommended tools and programs available
- What other schools have to say about Getting Connected
- How your high school can become a member of the Getting Connected network
Until the site goes live, please call the Getting Connected staff on 1800 242 372 or email us.
