On Monday 27 April, we were very pleased to welcome Ryan Parke to the school. Ryan is a coach, TEDx speaker, and category bestselling author, specialising in the links between lifestyle, hormones, and male mental health.
Parents were invited to attend two events during the day: a parent workshop from 08:00 to 09:00 and a keynote presentation from 15:30 to 16:30. Our Year 11, 12, and 13 boys also took part in a student workshop during the school day.
How to Help Him
Parent Workshop | 08:00 to 09:00 | PAC Foyer
Parents explored simple yet effective strategies to support the boys and young men in their lives through this engaging session led by Ryan Parke. Drawing on recent scientific insights and his experience coaching men and mentoring boys, Ryan shared practical, proven approaches to supporting male mental health.
The session covered:
- How hormones can impact communication styles, leading boys and young men to ‘shut down’ during important conversations
- A proven three step strategy for supportive conversations
- Effective language shifts to encourage openness
Combining new research with real coaching examples, the session offered valuable tools to help parents communicate in ways that are more inclusive, engaging, and effective.
The Myth That Kills Men
Keynote Presentation | 15:30 to 16:30 | PAC
In this engaging keynote, Ryan explored how hormones, lifestyle, and goal setting influence male mental health. Drawing on extensive research and his experience coaching hundreds of men, the session provided fresh insights alongside practical strategies.
Key takeaways included:
- How many of the leading causes of male mortality are interconnected and potentially preventable
- The role of testosterone in mental health and wellbeing
- Practical lifestyle strategies to support healthier habits and long term wellbeing
Delivered through a blend of science, storytelling, and strategy, the keynote offered a deeper understanding of male mental health, along with actionable steps to support the men and boys in our community.
