Jess took up the invitation by Director of Boarding, Murray McKenzie, to present to the boys on a number of sensitive topics on Tuesday evening, 11th June, in the Prep Room.

When the Education Review Office completed their audit in mid-February 2024, their 3-person team interviewed 10 boarders across all five year levels for a combined period of one hour, asking their views on life within Argyle House and Grove.

The ERO team passed their feedback on to Murray McKenzie. They identified that the boys had difficulty describing what they would do should a fellow boarder and/or staff member display inappropriate behaviour towards them.

As a result, Murray McKenzie and Jess Weller met to discuss how to best support our boys in identifying what inappropriate behaviour looks like and who they can go to to seek the necessary support should this occur to them.

Jess presented her powerpoint over two 30-minute sessions. Firstly with all Years 9 and 10 and then with all Years 11 and 12 boarders.

The point was made at the conclusion that this may not be happening to them now, but should it occur in the future, they will now know what inappropriate behaviour looks like and who to approach for support when required.

The boys were exceptional in their acceptance and response to Jess's presentation and discussion, for what were very sensitive, yet relevant topics, that Jess admitted to the boys at the time, proved challenging even for her to deliver on.

The feedback from the boys afterwards was that they appreciated the advice given and the solutions provided for the various scenarios that she addressed.

Please see the attached powerpoint presentation delivered by Jess below.