Bringing SMILE to Life: Joy’s Role in the Project
Guiding Students Through Growth
Joy Stewart has been a part of Bradfield Senior College for eight years, bringing her expertise in psychology and theatre to help students navigate personal and academic challenges. Through her culture and communication program, she provides students with the tools to understand themselves and those around them, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.
A Passion for Understanding People
Joy’s journey into psychotherapy and education was driven by a deep curiosity about how people think and behave. From using drama to inform others during a press blackout to seizing opportunities in Australia, her path has always been guided by a desire to help others connect and grow.
The Impact of SMILE on Students
SMILE offers students a unique opportunity to work in a real-world environment where they can experiment, make mistakes, and learn without fear. “It’s like a replica workplace,” Joy explains, “but without the pressure of getting fired. Students have space to test theories, interact with teammates, and engage with teachers as mentors.”
Building Confidence and Resilience
From a psychological perspective, creative projects like SMILE are crucial for students’ development. “At 17-18, one of the most important developmental processes is separation—learning to self-reflect, take risks, and build courage,” Joy says. The project helps students strengthen their identity, manage feedback, and gain confidence. While it can be overwhelming at times, it also provides a safe space for students to recognize their pain points and seek support when needed.
The Power of Collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of SMILE. “The theme is so big, students have to think bigger,” Joy explains. Working in teams, they learn to embrace trial and error, an essential part of both creativity and resilience.
The Most Rewarding Part
For Joy, the most fulfilling aspect of the project is seeing students take risks and embrace new ideas. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see them lean into challenges and feel empowered. It takes bravery, and I love seeing that growth.
Advice for Students
Joy’s key piece of advice? “Throw yourself in. As difficult as engagement might feel, having the courage to immerse yourself in creative work, school, and well-being is what creates balance. They aren’t separate—they’re all part of your life. So, get in there and live it."
Signing off from Communications
This is the fourth article for the weekly blog of the BSC Luna Park Project, in the meantime check in for our deep dives and sneak peaks on the latest project creations and Bradfield’s Instagram @bradfieldsc with all the latest project posts See You Next Week!
Last image taken from BSC website