Wellbeing
Respectful Relationships and Berry Street Program
Welcome Circles and Respectful Relationships
At Sacred Heart, we incorporate the principles of Respectful Relationships into our Berry Street Welcome Circle, which plays a crucial role in setting a positive tone for the day. Each morning, students gather in a circle to engage in activities that promote connection, mindfulness, and respect. During these circles, we emphasise the importance of recognising and valuing each other's personal strengths, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support among students.
The Welcome Circle provides an opportunity for students to share their thoughts, reflect on their strengths, and practice active listening and empathy. By starting the day with this ritual, we reinforce the core values of Respectful Relationships, creating a safe space where students feel heard, respected, and appreciated. This practice not only strengthens the bonds within the class but also helps students carry the principles of respect and understanding throughout their day.
Additionally, the Berry Street Welcome Circle allows us to address any concerns or conflicts in a respectful and supportive manner. By encouraging open communication and reinforcing the importance of respect in all interactions, we help students develop the social and emotional skills needed to navigate relationships both inside and outside the classroom. This consistent focus on Respectful Relationships in our daily routine is instrumental in building a cohesive and positive school community.
Podcast Suggestion
Maria Ruberto is director and founder of Salutegenics Psychology.
Maria is the co-designer of Resilience First Aid, an internationally recognised two-day certification program, which teaches the neuroscience of resilience.
We discuss with Maria the relationship between biology and behaviour, and the six domains of resilience. Getting technical, we delve into the negatives of screen time and the ridiculously positive benefits of doing stuff with other people.
Simon Brown - Wellbeing Leader