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This week, Calrossy Middle School students in Years 7 and 9 took part in an engaging and informative wellbeing session designed to empower young women with knowledge, confidence and practical strategies for managing their health.
Delivered by the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia, the Periods, Pain and Endometriosis Program (PPEP Talk®) provided a fun, medically accurate and age-appropriate exploration of menstruation, pelvic pain and overall wellbeing. The program, funded by the Federal Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing for Independent and Catholic Schools, is the largest pain education initiative for students in Australia and plays a key role in raising awareness and supporting early intervention.
Presented by Clinical Educator Jo Duncan-Nagy, the sessions used animation, video and interactive elements to break down common myths and provide clear, practical information. Students explored topics including understanding the female reproductive system, what a period is, what is considered “normal” versus what is not and how to manage symptoms with confidence.
Importantly, the sessions also focused on recognising when to seek help and developing early strategies to manage pelvic pain. Students were encouraged to ask questions, reflect on their own experiences, and continue conversations at home using the resources provided.
“Education is key to helping young people understand their bodies and recognise when something isn’t right,” said Ms Duncan-Nagy. “By equipping students with accurate information and practical tools early, we can reduce the long-term impact of pelvic pain and help them feel more confident seeking support.”
Teachers were also provided with comprehensive classroom resources to support ongoing learning, enabling follow-up discussions and questions to be explored in a familiar and supportive environment. This ensures students can continue to build their understanding over time and feel confident raising any concerns as they arise.
Students who attended PPEP Talk® (Year 9) and PPEP Talk® Menstrual Education (Year 7), who have identified a complex pain concern or would like their caregiver to know more, are invited to join the PPEP Talk® Next Steps free online session. Students attend with a caregiver and have the opportunity to ask questions with our Gynaecologist and Pain Specialist Dr Susan Evans. Students can register here , or view the PPEP Talk® Next Steps flyer for more information.
Calrossy PDHPE teacher Mrs Colleen Klasen highlighted the strong connection between the program and classroom learning.
“This session aligns closely with the PDHPE curriculum, where students explore health, wellbeing and aspects of sexual health, including managing change,” Mrs Klasen said. “It complements what students are already studying, while providing expert insight that builds their understanding, confidence and ability to make informed decisions about their health.”
The PPEP Talk® adopts an explicit teaching model— I do, we do, you do —and is supported by a suite of pre- and post-session resources for both students and families. This ensures learning continues beyond the classroom and encourages open, informed conversations at home.
By targeting awareness, understanding and early intervention, the program supports students to develop healthy habits and equips them with the tools to manage their wellbeing—helping ensure that pain does not become a barrier to learning, participation or opportunity.
At Calrossy, initiatives such as this reflect a strong commitment to holistic education—supporting students not only academically, but also in their physical, emotional and social wellbeing.







