The college took part in White Balloon Day, as well as R U OK? Day last Thursday, with the school's SRS and Reach Out Committee working to make their peers aware of mental health issues and the protection of children.

Students wore yellow as part of R U OK? Day, scrawled positive messages on the school's footpath in chalk and released white balloons during an assembly.

College principal Brenda King said in light of the recent tragedy in Lockhart, students had been encouraged to speak out.

"We want them to know it's okay to talk to each other or to us about anything," Mrs King said.

"As a school, we felt the two days gelled very well together.

"We need to protect our students and teach them about these issues in order to raise awareness."

R U OK? Day is aimed at asking people that exact question in order to start a conversation and help prevent the many suicides that occur in Australia each day.

White Balloon Day is Bravehearts' signature event that is held annually to raise awareness and funds for Australian children affected by sexual assault.

Students and staff from St Francis formed a committee for R U OK? Day, with member and year 10 student Abbey O'Callaghan hopeful the event would help reduce stigma associated with mental health.

"Mental health affects one in five people, so obviously when you look at that there would be people at our school that suffer from this," she said.

"We want them to know there is always a shoulder or someone to talk to."