Puppies will visit Narellan Library throughout October, to provide stress relief to students studying for the Higher School Certificate (HSC).
The Paws for a Second initiative, developed by Camden Youth Council, will run on weekdays in October between 3.30 and 4.30pm.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said the furry surprise was council’s unique way of celebrating Mental Health Month and helping local students undertaking the HSC exams.
“October is all about raising awareness of mental illness and taking a step back to make sure mental health in our everyday lives is one of our top priorities,” Cr Fedeli said.
“Our teenagers go through intense stress in the lead up to their HSC and we want them to feel comfortable reaching out for help. It’s important they know support is available to them if they need it.
“This initiative is a perfect opportunity for students to take a break, reassess and make sure they’re looking after themselves during the exam period
“I’d like to say a big thank you to PAWS Pet Therapy, who has helped make this initiative possible.”
Camden Council is also running HSC Lock In on Thursday, October 1 at Narellan Library.
This free event, which will run 5-9pm on both days.
It will include roving tutors, to help students with any questions relating to exams and content, representatives from Traxside and Headspace;, relaxation space, where students can calm down and play with a virtual reality headset and pizza for dinner, to keep students fuelled.
Council’s libraries are offering a number of other HSC support services, including:
- Individual study desks and bookable study rooms at both Narellan and Oran Park Libraries;
- Additional space set aside for quiet HSC study at Camden, Narellan and Oran Park Libraries; and
- Lectures and seminars, specifically tailored to HSC students.
For more information, visit camden.nsw.gov.au for Paws for a Second and libaray.camden.nsw.gov.au for library initiatives.
Camden Council’s Pet Awareness and Safety Program (PAWS) was named Community Education and Outreach Program of the year at the 2019 Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards ceremony earlier this month.
