Engagement programs
In addition to our learning programs, the school offers a wide array of therapeutic and engaging extra-curricular programs. These programs are designed to engage students and increase attendance, broaden student skills and interests and expose students to non-clinical general wellbeing strategies. Students are encouraged to trial the programs to find the right fit and will generally participate in 2-3 of these per week. Here's what some of our students have said about our many engagement programs over the years.
Student testimonies
Community Radio Show
"I love radio. We get to talk and listen to some awesome songs. We support our local community while making community connections. I learned how to use the RODE caster and get to help curate the playlist."
Ceramics
"Sonia provides a calming and open environment whilst teaching us the basics of ceramics which is great if you are just starting out! We get to make pinch pots, decorative and practical items. I really enjoyed the hands on and collaborative experience of learning ceramics with an experienced artist."
Yoga/Pilates
"The weekly yoga/Pilates sessions always leave me feeling grounded and energised, especially when I'm exhausted or feeling unwell. Lauren, our instructor, offers a friendly and non-judgmental presence. She can cater to anyone, whether you're looking for something beginner friendly or more advanced."
Room 13
"Room 13 is an Artist-in-Residence program where Michael provides you with experience in recording and producing a song with professional recording software. It is a great insight into the industry for anyone who is interested."
Community
"Community is an opportunity to relax and work on a craft project while making new friends and having a great chat! We've made various things you'll see hanging around the school, like the rug of our therapy dog, Ricky, or the crocheted Kirby blanket (that's probably on Roz's lap). If you want to join, talk to Kat and I'm sure she'd be more than happy to recruit some more help!"
Music Therapy and Band
"Music Therapy/Band with Danny is something that is enjoyed amongst the students as Danny is always ready to follow the students' lead of what they want to do the following jam session. Band is a great way to enjoy music with your fellow students. You are able to put in your own recommendation and eventually perform for the rest of the school, which is very loved and supported by the community."
Choir
"Choir is a very loved program that is taught by Jill, our music teacher/AP. She feels very passionate about teaching music and this is conveyed by the way she allows students to feel comfortable and take on a new challenge, that is singing in a group with 3 different sections. The choir performs towards the end of the term, allowing students to bring their love of music to the whole school community, which is verbally appreciated by students and staff."
Gaming
"At 2pm on a Tuesday, our SLSO Jake brings in a range of different video games, such as Moving Out and Mario Kart. It is a great experience to broaden your teamwork skills as well as friendship circles! Often, we play on Nintendo Switch or are open to new suggestions."
Board Games
"Board games is an activity run every Wednesday afternoon from 2-2:30pm. There are different games that can be played depending on what the students want. Most often it is the game, Werewolves, which is a very fun game that is very similar to the video game Among Us, where you get a role and figure out who the werewolf is. It is a good way to speak to students and make new friends."
Horticulture
"Do you have a green thumb? Horticulture with Stacie is a great time to be in the garden with your friends."
Green Team
"The Green Team meets every week to discuss and implement sustainability initiatives within the school. It includes both students and staff, and anyone is welcome to join and discuss their ideas for creating a more sustainable school environment."
"We could see from early on that their approach was unique, respectful, caring and not at all didactic. It didn't take us long to trust all the staff. Together we identified and unravelled triggers and started the journey to building resilience.” — a former parent of Woniora Road School.
Events
Find out about school events, celebrations and what’s coming up.