Wellbeing

ISNSW Respectful Relationships Education

This week, all Kinross Wolaroi staff attended the ISNSW Respectful Relationships Education (RRE) professional learning program, exploring the important role schools play in shaping respectful, safe and healthy relationships for young people. The program is part of a 12-month partnership with ISNSW to improve respectful relationship education at Kinross Wolaroi and help be part of the much bigger national picture of reducing gender-based violence.

A key message from the training was that, beyond family, teachers are often among the most significant adult influences in a young person’s life. Through everyday interactions, conversations, classroom culture and role modelling, schools have a powerful opportunity to help students develop empathy, respect, emotional awareness and confidence in relationships.

The training explored the concept of the “Man Box” — the social pressures and stereotypes that can shape boys’ behaviour and attitudes. These norms can include expectations that males should always appear strong, dominant, unemotional, financially responsible for others, or accepted by peers through risk-taking behaviours. Research shows that rigid adherence to these stereotypes can negatively impact both boys themselves and their relationships with others.

Staff examined several factors that can limit the development of respectful relationships, including:

• condoning violence or harmful behaviour 
• rigid gender stereotypes  
• unequal control or decision-making in relationships 
• unhealthy peer group pressures.

A major focus of the professional learning was the ISNSW RISE Framework, a practical approach designed to help adults respond confidently and constructively to concerning comments, behaviours or attitudes. The framework encourages educators to:

• Recognise harmful attitudes and behaviours 
• Invite conversation with empathy and curiosity 
• Set clear expectations around respect and inclusion 
• Engage young people in critical thinking.

Importantly, the framework emphasises addressing the behaviour or language rather than shaming the individual, creating opportunities for reflection, learning and growth.

Parents may also find the RISE framework valuable when navigating difficult conversations at home. Rather than immediately shutting down comments or opinions, the framework encourages calm curiosity and open dialogue through questions such as:

• “What do you mean by that?” 
• “Where do you think that idea comes from?” 
• “How do you think someone hearing that might feel?” 
• “What’s another way to think about this?” 

A detailed factsheet is attached for those wanting to learn more:

These conversations can help young people critically examine stereotypes, social pressures and online influences while reinforcing the values of respect, dignity and empathy.

At Kinross Wolaroi, we remain committed to fostering a culture where respectful relationships, inclusion and wellbeing are embedded in everyday school life, helping students develop the character, confidence and understanding needed to positively contribute to their communities.