Amy Coad, Student Engagement Coordinator in Middle School and a 2025 Burgmann Professional Learning Scholarship recipient, focused her study on student wellbeing and how schools can respond to the changing social and technological landscape shaping the lives of young people.
As a 2025 Burgmann Professional Learning Scholarship recipient, Amy Coad focused her study on student wellbeing and how schools can respond to the changing social and technological landscape shaping the lives of young people.
Through the scholarship, Amy undertook a Graduate Certificate in Wellbeing and Education at the University of Notre Dame. The course builds on her earlier Master of Education in Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health, allowing her to engage with current research and evolving approaches to student wellbeing.
Since completing her previous degree, the world experienced the disruption of COVID 19 and rapid technological change. Amy was keen to explore how these shifts are shaping the experiences of young people today.
One insight that stood out during her study was the paradox created by technology. While young people have unprecedented access to information and communication tools, many are reporting increasing levels of loneliness and social disconnection.
“Young people have communication tools in the palm of their hands, yet they are reporting higher levels of loneliness and social disconnection than ever before.”
“Young people have communication tools in the palm of their hands, yet they are reporting higher levels of loneliness and social disconnection than ever before.”Amy Coad
Amy’s study encouraged her to reflect on the wellbeing initiatives already in place at Burgmann and how they support both students and staff.
One subject in particular explored how schools evaluate wellbeing frameworks and initiatives. This perspective helped Amy consider the purpose and impact of several Middle School initiatives, including programs designed to strengthen student engagement and personal growth.
The course also reinforced the importance of aligning wellbeing initiatives with clear goals and shared understanding among staff. When teachers and leaders have a strong framework guiding their work, it becomes easier to support students in meaningful and consistent ways.
As Amy moves further into leadership, she plans to continue building on this work. Her remaining studies focus on positive education and leadership development, areas that align closely with the values of faith based education and the importance of supporting both student and staff wellbeing.
Through the scholarship, Amy’s learning continues to inform conversations and practice across the school as staff explore how best to support the wellbeing of every student.
This article forms part of the Burgmann Professional Learning Scholarship series.
Read more about the scholarship and the 2025 recipients.