Wellbeing

Our Students Learn From Those Around Them

The Prime Minister’s recent call to turn down the heat in public commentary is a timely reminder of the importance of kindness, respect and the responsibility we all share in how we speak about others.

At our school, Respectful Relationships curriculum helps students develop empathy, manage emotions and understand how their words and actions affect others. These lessons are strengthened by the examples children see beyond the classroom.

Every day in the playground and classroom, children are learning to navigate disagreements, take turns, manage disappointment and consider another person’s perspective. These skills develop over time, and mistakes are an expected part of learning. Children need guidance, practice and consistent examples from adults to help them express themselves respectfully, resolve conflict and repair relationships.

Children learn not only from what we teach them, but from what we model every day. They listen to our conversations, observe our reactions and notice how we speak about people, particularly those with whom we disagree.

We do not need to share the same opinions to treat one another with respect. By listening, expressing disagreement calmly and discussing ideas without making personal attacks, we demonstrate the same skills we ask children to practise at school.

Everyday moments offer opportunities to model these skills: pausing before responding when frustrated, choosing respectful language, considering another person’s perspective and apologising when our words cause hurt. The comments we make and share online also contribute to the example we set.

As a school community, we can work together to model empathy, inclusion, kindness and respect at home, at school and in the wider community. Our students are listening, watching and learning every day. Let’s help them become compassionate, respectful and thoughtful members of our community.