Assistant Principals' Report

Hello everyone and welcome to our newsletter article,

Ask R U OK? Any Day because life happens every day.  

Yesterday, Thursday 11 September was R U OK?Day but we know that whether it’s a friend, family member, partner, or colleague , the people around us go through life’s ups and downs every day. That’s why we want everyone to feel confident to check in with the people they care about and Ask R U OK? Any Day.

Our research found that those who are regularly asked, 'are you OK?' report increased feelings of wellbeing, and we've learned that a third of Australians say they've been asking others more often over the past year . That means many of us are already showing up for others in meaningful ways, but when it comes to conversations about how we’re really going, some people are less confident than others. 

It’s natural to feel a little hesitant, but the good news is nine in ten Australians report feeling grateful, supported and cared for when someone genuinely asks them if they're OK - and that’s a good reason to give it a go. You might even be having these conversations already without realising.

Pat Cronin Foundation, Be Wise Presentations

Thank you to all parents and carers who attended assembly, one of the Be Wise Presentations or have had a discussion with their child/children about the Act Kindly education materials provided by the Foundation. This work and collaboration is important because we know when we work together as a school and as community, including our wider community we will make the most difference and have the greatest impact for the HPS students.

If you are yet to have a discussion about the learning so far and would like to, please use the following as prompts depending on the age and needs of your child: 

• Understanding and accepting emotions and the impact on our mind and body
• It is normal and encouraged to allow yourself to feel all emotions, but don't let your emotions 'take over'
• The importance of seeking support from adults, you do not need to solve conflict on your own, especially if you think it is getting out of control 
• Anger is an emotion we all feel, however if we do not accept this feeling and put strategies in place (walk away, deep breaths), it can lead to aggression which can 'get out of control'
• Understanding and aiming to minimise your own anger triggers, and those of others
• The consequences of violence cause a ripple effect; they can impact individuals, family, friends and community members
• PAT (pause, accept, think) - the what, when and how
• Reflecting on what each of us have in 'our toolbox' for when we feel strong emotions such as anger
• Be Wise, Think Carefully, Act Kindly, because violence is never the answer

A number of students across the whole school have shared with us the impact and impression the presentations which occurred in Year 4-6 have made. 

Thank you to Henry (rm 24), Mohammed (rm 2), Adley (rm 2), Isla (rm 24), Thomas (rm 24), Neave (rm 2) and Hannah (rm 24) for sharing the following reflections: 

-The Pat Cronin Foundation are doing a lot of great work in helping kids to control anger so it does not lead to aggression and violence

-The strategies we discussed will help us to build our resilience 

-The presentation was extremely informative, important, meaningful and educational

-We discussed the consequences and impact of violence and the many people it affects

-Remove yourself from aggressive situations & seek help from adults 

-The message is important and helps you to see the consequences of violence

-It is important to keep your hands and feet to yourself and act safely and respectfully

-What happened to Pat was sad and we don't want it to happen again - if we follow strategies and advice from the presentation we can help end violence and the coward punch

-Violence is dangerous, and never okay

-The presentation was in language I understood and relevant to me and my peers 

Simon Lovett, Year 6 teacher also shared his reflection: 

Our students were highly engaged in the Pat Cronin Foundation presentation, which shared a powerful and relatable message about making wise choices and preventing violence. The important messaging will leave a lasting impact on both staff and students at HPS.

Thank you also to Tahnee Pape, who has been updating staff and students on the Act Kindly educational resources available. We will continue to utilise the resources from the Foundation throughout the rest of the year and review in coming years as well. 

Be Wise, Think Carefully, Act Kindly

Understanding Maths Anxiety and Building Confidence, from Heather Gordan (Acting Learning Specialist)

Maths anxiety is a common challenge that many students face. The attached guide explores maths anxiety and shares some practical activities that parents can try at home to support children to build confidence in their mathematical abilities. It also highlights how a positive mindset can make a significant difference in overcoming challenges and fostering a love for learning mathematics.

We hope the tips shared will be helpful as you support your child’s mathematical journey and encourage both skill development and a positive attitude towards maths. 

Have a great weekend and week ahead.

Helen Thomas & Monique Rankin

Assistant Principals

Heidelberg Primary School