St John’s College students from Prep to Year 12 are writing an original song in support of Kids Helpline and World Children’s Day being celebrated on 27 October.

The song, with its encouraging and supportive words, is hoped to lift the spirits of those who may not be feeling well.

The project is aimed at raising awareness among children with mental health issues during the current pandemic, and it will also highlight the kids helpline service at a time when student mental health and wellbeing is being severely impacted by the pandemic lockdown.

The students are writing the song in recognition of RUOK? Day on 9 September, with original music by St John’s Performing Arts Coordinator Shanti Pradhan and piano teacher Huw Gregory.

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The entire community will perform the song, including students, teachers, family members, even pets.

It will be recorded remotely and then launched on World Children’s Day in Australia.

The song is the school’s way of sending out a message of love and support at a time of stress, anxiety, and even depression.

According to the Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Services, “ Music therapy can be effective in meeting the diverse psychosocial needs of children through song writing and improvisation, and can offer opportunities for self-expression and communication. It can also help children identify their strengths, enabling them to maintain a sense of self-esteem and dignity.”

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