Understanding the TEENbrain for a smooth Transition to high school

The transition to high school can present challenges for some, whilst others readily adjust. We will discuss adolescent brain development and suggest strategies for supporting our students during this transition.

Join us for a powerful insight into the teen Brain presented by Fellow Researcher Dr Michelle Kennedy, Thompson Institute, USC followed by a compared Q&A by key school representatives and experts.

About Dr Michelle Kennedy

Dr Kennedy has over 30 years of teaching and counselling experience, specialising in childrens mental health and the impact this has on their learning.

Her research focuses on how children and adolescents adjust to stressful events. In particular, transition to primary and high school and how these transitions can be associated with increased anxiety and attention issues.  Her combined teaching and research experience in child and adolescent mental health offers a depth of knowledge rarely seen in the youth mental health space.

For those needing children cared for during this event; There will be a space for primary aged children during the hours of this event. Please advise this when registering.

The Transition to High School working group is an initiative of Caloundra State High School P&C with support from our local Primary Schools.  The working group collaborate to understand any transition gaps from primary school to high school and find ways to make it an smoother transition both for our children and their families and carers. We are also working with teachers for them to understand the learning environment in which their new students have come to them from.