Welcome to Counsellor’s Corner!

At ISA, student wellbeing sits at the heart of everything we do and what we stand for – even in our mission statement ‘a safe and caring learning environment’, we don’t just mean physical safety, but increasingly, in this time, emotional security too.

That’s why we are delighted to introduce our new wellbeing series ‘counsellor’s corner’, whereby our Guidance Counsellor, Valerie DeGraw, will regularly share some words of wellbeing wisdom to our community.

In spirit of our new term just beginning, Valerie shares information on the RAFTS framework, a helpful way to look at transitions.

R = Reconcile your relationships or make peace. Make sure you leave on good terms with those that you may have disagreed with. Make your last few weeks good memories to think back on.

A and F = Acknowledge your Friendships. Let your friends know how important they have been. By doing this, a sense of openness will stay with you, and allow for you to anticipate your new location with resilience. It is both important and helpful to communicate your appreciation, gratitude, and affection—before you leave—to those who have been special to you.

T = Think about where you will be next. Be realistic. Look ahead and give the next location a chance. Your new place might not solve all your plans for the future, but it is a new experience to embrace and say “hello” to.

S = Say Goodbye. Saying goodbye to your favourite people is the most important thing you can do before you leave. Make a plan, then do it. This will bring an important sense of closure. Remember, “How well you leave, sometimes determines how well you arrive.”

Warm regards,

Valerie DeGraw, Guidance Counsellor