Wellbeing

R U OK Day 

R U OK? Any Day — Supporting Student Participation and Connection

Thursday, 10 September 2026 is R U OK?Day, a reminder to check in with the people around us and start conversations that matter.

At school, we know that feeling connected, supported and included can make a big difference to a student’s experience. Student participation isn’t just about being present at school — it’s about feeling that you belong, that your voice matters and that you have people around you who care.

Connection can make a difference

Research shows that one in three people don’t realise the difference they can make by checking in with someone they care about.

Yet, 9 in 10 people who have been asked, “Are you OK?” report feeling grateful, cared about and supported.

For students, a simple check-in can be an important first step towards connection. Taking the time to notice how a young person is going, listen to what they have to say and encourage them to be involved can help them feel valued and supported.

Encouraging students to participate

There are many ways families can support student participation and connection:

• Ask about their day — go beyond “How was school?” and ask what they enjoyed, what they found challenging or who they connected with.
• Encourage involvement — support your child to participate in activities, clubs, sports, performances or other opportunities that interest them.
• Listen to their ideas — encourage them to share their opinions and have a voice in decisions that affect them.
• Notice changes — if your child becomes withdrawn or stops participating in things they usually enjoy, take the time to check in.
• Celebrate small steps — participation looks different for every student. A small act of joining in, speaking up or connecting with others is worth recognising.

If someone’s on your mind, ask

We also know that one in four people might hesitate to ask, even when they think someone could be struggling.

If you notice that your child or another young person seems less engaged, isolated or disconnected, trust your instinct and start a conversation.

You might simply say:

“I’ve noticed you haven’t been joining in as much lately. How are things going?”

Or:

“Is there anything making it harder for you to feel connected at school?”

You don’t need to have all the answers. Sometimes, giving a young person the opportunity to talk, knowing they are being heard and helping them identify ways to reconnect can be incredibly valuable.

Participation starts with connection

This R U OK?Day, let’s remember that meaningful conversations and connections can happen every day.

By checking in, listening without judgement and encouraging students to have a voice and take part, we can help create a stronger sense of belonging, connection and participation across our school community.

Ms Jodie Cusack

Wellbeing Leader