The Cotchin’s Posisocks program involves schools, sporting and social clubs wearing the multi-coloured socks with a simple message: “Putting our socks on in the morning is one of the most common routines we have. Using it as a reminder to share a positive message with children should also become a habit.’’
Putting on socks is designed as a trigger for setting a more positive mindset. At Rochester Primary, teacher Sarah Mangan has involved several Rochester clubs in celebrating the launch of the program.
It is also being used to launch what would normally be one of the school’s major celebrations, its annual fair, which has been renamed and is on Wednesday, September 6.
In keeping with the theme, the fair will be known as the Rochester Primary School Health Expo, a free event that will feature live music from Jessica Lorraine, a jumping castle, milkshake stand, AFL and netball clinics, Little Aths, Boogie Bounce, slinky apples, yard games, beading, bracelet making and more.
The stalls will be held from 11.30am until 1.30pm, and a colour run will follow from 2pm.
Mrs Mangan said the event was being co-ordinated with the international celebration of Health and Physical Education Day and would include Nanneella Estate Primary School students.
“We missed out on our fair because of the flood. This will be a health-focused fair and we have been very lucky to have great support from Jenna Harvey (Rochester Community House),” she said.
“She has been massively involved in organising the Wednesday, September 6 event.”
She said there had been a focus on making the event free, and while there was a health focus, some more questionable treats would also be on offer to students.
Rochester Primary has focused recently on mental and physical health, with the school’s wellbeing room open most lunchtimes and operational since the start of last term.
“It’s a great space for the wellbeing team to operate from,” principal Kate Whitford said.
“Kids become aware and learn to recognise their emotions. They will often ask if they can go to the wellbeing room.”
