Weekly Values Focus

This week's values focus:

Week 1: Footscray West students are welcoming

At our school, everyone should feel like they belong. Belonging means feeling safe, accepted, and valued for who we are. We help create this feeling by being welcoming to everyone, even when they are not our close friend or we are feeling unsure.  A smile, wave, or kind word can make a big difference. Using people’s names when we greet them shows belonging and helps them feel noticed. It doesn’t take much – sometimes just a simple greeting, asking someone how they are, or letting someone new sit beside you can help them feel comfortable and part of our school. These small actions help others feel supported and remind them that they are not alone. We all play a part in making our school a place where everyone feels they fit in.

This week, think about the little things you can do to make someone feel they belong at Footscray West. Could you smile at someone you don’t usually talk to? Could you say “hi” to someone walking past? Could you invite someone to play? These small actions show kindness and help everyone feel at home at our school.

Next week's values focus:

Week 2: Footscray West students build relationships with others

At Footscray West we build relationships by getting to know the people around us. We show interest in others, share experiences, and spend time learning about their likes, ideas, and feelings. Building relationships helps everyone feel connected and valued – it’s the first step to belonging.

We can build relationships in many small, everyday ways. This might look like asking a classmate about their day, remembering someone’s interests, or checking in on a friend who seems lonely. Listening carefully and showing kindness helps others feel safe and welcomed. When we share our own stories, we give others a chance to know us too.

This week, notice the opportunities you have to build relationships with others. Could you start a conversation with someone new? Could you sit with a classmate you don’t usually talk to? Small steps like these can help friendships grow and make everyone feel safe, connected, and part of our school community.