We want to regularly share information about our wonderful staff here at Brampton College. This month, we’re introducing Sam Kaltsa, our Welfare Officer and Deputy Safeguarding Lead, who shares a bit about her role here…
How long have you worked at Brampton College and what does your role involve?
I’ve worked at Brampton for nearly 6 years but have been in my current role for the past year and a half. After working in the main office I realised how much I enjoy helping students and was able to develop my role to what it is now. My role revolves around supporting students with anything non-academic. The two often correlate so I work closely with the students’ teachers and the rest of the learning support team.
What support systems does the College have in place to help students manage academic stress and pressure?
We have a school counsellor and an Educational Psychologist who work with students. Meetings with the school counsellor are kept confidential, whereas the Educational Psychologist will pass onto teachers information they need to be aware of to best support the students. We also have an Adolescent Psychotherapist, who tends to work with staff members in order to find the best way to support students.
What is your favourite part about the role?
Working closely with students is what I enjoy the most. It can be hard seeing students struggling and also being the one they often disclose things to, but being able to support them and have a positive impact in their lives is very rewarding.
How can students approach you for help?
Students can either email me to book an appointment or pop in when they are free. There are posters around the College that state where I am based, and there is also a QR code that they can scan to book a time with me directly.
What advice would you give parents to help their children thrive during their time at Brampton College?
Be approachable and listen actively to your students. Teenagers go through so many emotions they can’t even explain and very often feel they cannot talk to their parents as “they won’t understand”. It’s more about listening and less about understanding in my opinion. Be supportive with what your students actually want to do in their lives.
What do you do to maintain your own wellbeing?
I love training whether that is weightlifting, Pilates or running and I try do it in the morning before work. I dedicate that hour to myself, which helps me feel better through the day.
What are some of the most common challenges students face, and how do you help them overcome these?
A lot of the time students think that studying and getting into their preferred university is their only goal. Whilst that is important, I try and remind them that they should do their best to achieve that, without however thinking their life will be over if something doesn’t go to plan.
Tell us a bit about the calm room
We set up the calm room during assessments and exams. It is a study free space outside my office, with low lighting where students can come before their exams if they are feeling a bit nervous and want to relax without being around other students and the general tense environment outside an exam room. I am usually also available to chat to them as that can help take their mind off the stress revolved around exams.
What steps can students take to maintain positive mental health?
Finding something they enjoy doing is very important. Studying is important but it is not something they should be doing 24/7. Rest and fresh air is also vital so taking some time to go on a walk while listening to a podcast or some music they enjoy can do wonders.