Respectful Relationships and Wellbeing 

Dear Familes

One key aspect of our Respectful Relationships program delves into gender and identity, as well as fostering positive gender relations. Children internalise societal gender norms and expectations from a young age, shaping their attitudes, roles, and behaviours. These expectations are drawn from various sources, including parents, friends, teachers, and media, as well as institutional and community practices. Children tend to mimic and emulate the behaviours of adults and older peers, with some of these gender norms having the potential to cause harm, leading to unequal treatment, risky conduct, adverse health effects, or even violence.

Hence, it is evident that negative gender norms have repercussions on the well-being of individuals of all genders. Our teachers are imparting an understanding of the cultural and contextual aspects of gender expression, students are empowered to challenge the idea of fixed gender roles and attributes. This empowers them to question both their personal beliefs and the broader societal attitudes toward men and women, with the aim of reforming norms that perpetuate inequality, limit opportunities, contribute to poor health, or result in violence.

This lesson was facilitated with our Grade 5 students, drawing inspiration from a video. During the exercise, students were encouraged to sketch individuals representing various professions, including a footballer, dancer, builder, nurse, and teacher. It was heartening to witness our students embracing the concept that individuals have the freedom to choose their future paths without being constrained by gender stereotypes. This very notion underpins the fundamental principles of our Respectful Relationships program, which is integrated into our school curriculum from prep through to year six.

Podcast suggestion 

Taryn Brumfitt - Every Body Is Perfect

As Australian of the Year, Taryn Brumfitt is making a massive impact on an issue that effects people everywhere… BODY IMAGE. Not only is Taryn a body image campaigner, she’s also a documentarian, having made two docos encouraging us to EMBRACE our bodies, not matter what they look like.  

Wellbeing Matters,

Simon Brown