Independent Schools Guide 2025: How this school created a culture of care

From how to resolve conflict and build respectful relationships to social media – student wellbeing is a key part of the curriculum at Peninsula Grammar.

The Mount Eliza school ensures students feel safe and supported through an age-appropriate and student-focused wellbeing program that begins in Kindergarten. New Principal, Leandra Turner, is a passionate advocate for student wellbeing and for ensuring the school is proactive and responsive.

“Wellbeing enables young people to reach their potential,” she says. “It gives them life balance, happiness, higher self-esteem, a sense of purpose and hope. Everyone at Peninsula Grammar has an ongoing language of learning about wellbeing. We are on the same journey, we are one community and everyone – students, staff and families – feels listened to and valued.”

The wellbeing team brings together psychologists, social work counsellors, Heads of School and teachers who carefully monitor and address emerging issues. The program also provides regular opportunities for educators to deliver research and information to students to equip them with skills to navigate daily life.

“If a student feels good about themselves and about being in the classroom, they’re going to learn better,” says Head of Wellbeing Anne Stringer. “We challenge them to think, reflect and grow, and to understand that life isn’t about feeling safe all the time. It’s about taking some risks within a safe environment.

“We also emphasise that young people need to be accountable for their behaviour. They will make mistakes but, in our world today, there’s a growing tendency to deny it when we do something wrong.

“We want to shift that mentality because young people can’t learn unless they accept that they will make mistakes and recognise they can work through that and move forward.”

The Junior School’s programs foster respect, communication, and confidence, essential elements for academic success. These foundations support the strong outcomes seen in the VCE 2024 results, showcasing Peninsula Grammar’s commitment to academic and personal growth.

At Peninsula Grammar, academic achievement and student wellbeing are synonymous. The Mount Eliza school is committed to fostering a culture in which students can excel academically and personally.