Principals Report

Dear Berwick Chase Families,

At Berwick Chase Primary, we are proud to share the positive strides we’ve made with our School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) system. This approach is designed to build a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment where every child can thrive both academically and socially.

One of the most exciting developments has been the creation of our Positive Behaviour Matrix. This matrix clearly outlines the behaviours we value most, across all areas of school life. The expectations are simple, consistent, and easy for students to follow—helping to ensure everyone understands what respect, responsibility, and resilience look like in action.

To support this, we have developed age-appropriate lesson plans that accompany each expectation. These lessons make the behaviours explicit and teachable, ensuring students don’t just hear about them, but practice and understand them in real contexts. Alongside this teaching, our reward systems reinforce positive behaviour at both the classroom and whole-school level. Students can earn recognition and celebration not only for their achievements, but also for demonstrating kindness, teamwork, and resilience in their daily interactions.

The data tells us this approach works. Research from the Department of Education Victoria shows that schools using SWPBS report a 20–60% reduction in problem behaviour and a marked improvement in student engagement. At our school, we are already noticing calmer classrooms, stronger peer relationships, and increased student ownership of their actions. These positive trends align with international findings that schools implementing SWPBS see higher levels of student wellbeing and greater academic growth.

We look forward to continuing to roll out the program school-wide and continue to engage with our student population. 

The introduction of our Positive Behaviour Matrix, supported by lesson plans and rewards, marks an important milestone for our school. Together—staff, students, and families—we are building a culture where positive behaviour is the foundation for learning and success.

Warm Regards, 

Chris Short

Principal