It has been a calm, reflective start to the term as we supported each other with the sad news of the recent loss of our Year 7 student Jacqui Wilton. Jacqui joined us at West Lakes at the start of this year as a friendly and bubbly student. She quickly connected with many staff and made some close friends who will miss her. At her funeral her family spoke of her as a fun, confident and enthusiastic individual with a love of music, who touched the hearts of many with her smile. Her school friend Lucy bravely stood and talked about the close moments they shared and what Jacqui had done for her as a friend. Friendships and smiles are an important part of the care and kindness we need in our lives. As a community we will seek ways to help us to continue to grieve and honour Jacqui’s memory. Our sympathy and thoughts continue to be with Jacqui’s Dad Craig and her siblings Josh, Hannah, Danny and Christina. I share with you the photo of Jacqui to help us all remember to smile and show kindness.
As a school we continue to support our students and staff as they deal with their grief and loss. For each child and adult, grief can occur in different ways... sometimes it is instant or delayed, sometimes it is outward or held within. Over the coming days and weeks please continue to talk with each other and support those around you. Look out for signs that your child may be struggling and, if needed, call into our Wellbeing Hub to speak with Ms Rozika our Wellbeing Leader or Ms Tracey our Pastoral Worker. School Counsellors return to site next Wednesday morning to follow up and continue their support.
