Dear WSSC Community, Students, Staff, Parent/Caregiver,
I am writing to you with some sad news about a member of our school community. One of our former Year 11 students is missing and feared to have drowned in a tragic accident at Noreuil Park, Albury on Saturday 25th December.
Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are with Jules Lunanga’s family and friends and the wider Congolese community. Our thanks are extended to the police and the rescue teams still working at the scene.
We encourage you all to have open conversations with your young person about positive ways of seeking help if they are feeling low or hopeless. Today and over the coming weeks, you may be concerned about the reactions of your child to this news. Many students will wish to talk with their parents, so I have listed some general information on the WSSC website (see Student Support and Wellbeing) which may assist you in those conversations. I also encourage you to let your child know that you are aware of this incident and that you will listen to their concerns at any time they wish to share them.
Unexpected deaths may trigger many emotions amongst students and staff, as well as their parents, family and friends. Our College is committed to supporting our students and staff during this difficult time and we will provide further advice regarding support in the coming days. In addition to providing support, it is also beneficial to encourage your young person to return to normal routines as soon as possible and recognise that students can be affected by this event for many months to come. If your child is already using the services of a mental health professional, you should ensure this information is passed on to that professional.
If you are concerned about the mental health of someone around you, please refer to the services listed on our website.
Again, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to Jules family and friends and ask you to take care of yourselves and each other during this difficult time.
Vern Hilditch
College Principal
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