Positive Behaviour for Learning 

This weeks focus is I am resilient when I persist when things are hard.

Article written for the PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning Newsletter) Community schools:

ST JOHN VIANNEY WALKING WITH

FAMILIES IN FAITH & KNOWLEDGE

At St John Vianney Mulgrave, diversity is not just acknowledged—it is celebrated. With over 41 nationalities represented in our school community, fostering positive behaviour for learning is deeply rooted in our commitment to harmony, inclusion, and cultural respect. A key aspect of this commitment is embedding Indigenous perspectives into our learning environment and daily practices.

In line with Child Safe Standard 1 and our Positive Behaviour for Learning, we aim to create a culturally safe and inclusive environment for all students. Here’s how we’re achieving this:

🖤 Encouraging Cultural Expression

We actively support each child’s right to express and celebrate their culture. Our curriculum includes activities and discussions that allow our students to learn about Aboriginal students to share their identities, stories, and heritage in a safe and supportive space.

❤️ Embedding Indigenous Perspectives in Learning

Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are thoughtfully integrated into our teaching and learning programs. From celebrating NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week, to classroom lessons that explore Aboriginal history, connection to Country, and spiritual beliefs, students develop an appreciation for the richness and resilience of First Nations cultures. 

At the school we have a Scope and Sequence which reflects the needs around behaviour within the school. Each week we have a particular whole school focus and students are acknowledged for their positive behaviour around this one behavior which also aligns with one of our values. The student is rewarded a token which they place in their classroom pocket. At the end of each week students can choose to cash in tokens or collect 10 which then becomes a ‘Vianney Voucher’. They can then save a for another student created acknowledgement from the matrix.

💛 Valuing Aboriginal Culture for Wellbeing and Safety

We educate our community about the strengths of Aboriginal culture and its critical role in supporting the wellbeing, safety and identity of Aboriginal children. Staff participate in ongoing cultural awareness training, and Indigenous perspectives are included in planning and policy discussions.

🛡️ Addressing Racism and Promoting Respect

St John Vianney has zero tolerance for racism. We have clear protocols in place to identify and address any instances of racial discrimination. Respectful communication, empathy, and kindness are promoted as core values in our PBL framework. Our staff work collaboratively with families to support the individual needs and cultural identities of their children, ensuring everyone feels a sense of belonging. Every policy, procedure and practice at St John Vianney reflects our commitment to cultural safety. We continually review and strengthen our approach to ensure all students feel safe, respected, and valued.

By embedding Indigenous perspectives into our teaching and learning environment, we not only meet the Child Safe Standards but also help our students grow into compassionate, informed, and inclusive members of society.