Term 3 2024

Term 3 2024 Program Highlights

Throughout Term 3, students from 177 public primary and high schools across NSW have had the opportunity to experience a range of exciting activities during their stay. They came from areas surrounding Albury, Bathurst, Central Coast, Deniliquin, Dubbo, Fairfield, Griffith, Orange-Lachlan, Queanbeyan, Wagga Wagga and Hornsby.

In the winter months, swimming in local beach pools is suspended, but students still get to feel the sand between their toes as they play and explore along Curl Curl Beach. However, indoor pool visits continue, with excursions to the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC) being a favourite with the children. The SOPAC whirlpool and water slide never fail to impress!

Developing social skills and personal growth remains at the heart of each visit. Across all areas of the Stewart House Program, teaching and learning focus on three core areas: self-awareness, emotional regulation, and connecting with others. One learning activity involves guiding students through strategies to enhance effective communication, focusing on assertive traits such as staying calm, being respectful, and building confidence. These qualities are emphasised and reinforced in various social settings, helping students learn how to express their needs and opinions clearly while maintaining positive relationships with their peers.

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JP’s Journey: A Heartfelt Reflection on the Stewart House Experience

We share this terrific literary art from JP documenting his Stewart House journey. JP and all the other children who visit Stewart House benefit from a range of programs aimed at building self-confidence, improving mental health, and developing essential life skills. The focus on personal growth, emotional regulation, and social connection helps students build resilience, express themselves more effectively, and form positive relationships with their peers. Thanks, JP, for your excellent insight!

 

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Friends of Stewart House (FOSH): A Legacy of Support

Since its founding in 1936, Friends of Stewart House (FOSH) has been dedicated to supporting vulnerable children across NSW. Originally formed by the wives of senior NSW Department of Education administrators (aka. WAWILI), FOSH began as a small group providing essential items for students at Stewart House. Over the years, it has grown into a much larger network, committed to improving the lives of children who visit the facility.

FOSH’s hands-on approach to fundraising and volunteering is what sets it apart. From organising events and knitting clothes to helping with gardening and maintenance, its members have always been actively involved. Times have changed, and so has the role of FOSH. To align with the new focus on students’ emotional and mental health at Stewart House, FOSH remains a vital pillar of support.

Despite changes in the educational landscape and a decline in teacher donations, FOSH continues to make a lasting impact. Its members are finding creative ways to support students in need while maintaining a strong sense of community through social events and fundraising initiatives.

FOSH’s unique combination of tradition, dedication, and community involvement makes it valuable to Stewart House’s history and future.

Read more about how to join, the history, and the role of FOSH, here.

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Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches

We appreciate the vital water safety education provided by Surf Life Saving Education. Established in July 2004, it’s an initiative of the 21 Surf Clubs on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, promoting surf safety through education. Our enduring relationship allows children from across NSW and the ACT who visit, like those pictured here with educators Rick and Justine, to learn about surf safety.

 

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ASX Refinitiv Charity Raffle

We are fortunate to be a beneficiary of the upcoming ASX Refinitiv Charity Foundation raffle where all proceeds from tickets sold go towards supporting benefiting charities. The Foundation’s charter is to support Children’s, Disability and Medical Research Charities.

Tickets are available for Buy Tickets and every purchase through the link provided below will help support Stewart House to provide disadvantaged children with the break they deserve.

We thank you for your consideration!