Project X is a fully cross-curricular programme of learning open to Year 11 and 12 students this year. In this course, students are empowered to make decisions about their learning and choose a topic of personal interest that can be assessed at NCEA Levels 1 and 2.

Much of what is learnt in Project X mimics the skills that many adults use in their daily careers. Learning to communicate effectively with an open mind can be challenging to us all no matter what stage in life we find ourselves in. Students at St Margaret’s College have the opportunity to begin to develop skills like communication, problem-solving and being flexible in the development of their specific project. Students have the option to create a product, service or event that will fulfil a need to improve a situation.

This year, we have had an opportunity to work alongside Lisa Mills who is a qualified facilitator in creative therapy. We have been trialling a co-constructed programme, tailored specifically for the wellbeing needs of the students in Project X. Lisa has caringly led us through many thought-provoking activities that have empowered us. We have been learning to use tools and skills that have helped us develop our personal growth and self-awareness. Many of the strategies that Lisa has introduced us to will be useful to us no matter what age, stage or place we might find ourselves in.

Lisa and I have been trialling this programme with the Year 12 Project X class this year in the hope that these lessons will be of benefit to many more teens in the future. Understanding how we feel, identifying our needs, and learning how to accept the thoughts we have is an important part of developing our self-esteem. We have learnt how breathing can effectively calm the body and mind so that we can perform at our absolute best; a calm mind allows us to be more creative, problem-solve and reconnect us to an inner resilience. We have also learnt how befriending our feelings and cultivating acceptance, brings us into greater ease and self-respect; all valuable skills for teenagers as they prepare to forge their path in life.

I would be happy to recommend Lisa as a therapist and practitioner if you feel a need for support in any way. She runs her own private practice ‘Golden Touch Therapies’, and is available for counselling and also Reiki treatments. You can visit her website www.goldentouch.co.nz or contact Lisa on 027 814 0785.