Wellbeing

Are You Ok? Day – Building a Culture of Care and Connection

This week our school acknowledged R U OK? Day, an important national initiative that encourages all of us to pause and check in on the wellbeing of those around us. 

While the day itself takes place once a year, the message behind it is something we want our students and families to carry with them every day: asking the simple question “Are you okay?” can be a powerful step toward supporting ourselves and others.

The purpose of R U OK? Day is to remind us that meaningful conversations can make a difference. Taking the time to notice changes in someone’s behaviour, to ask how they are going, and to listen with care shows people that they are not alone. For children, these skills are especially important as they learn to navigate friendships, manage emotions, and recognise when they or their peers may need extra support.

Throughout the week, students were encouraged to think about both sides of these conversations: how they might recognise when a friend is struggling, and how they can reflect on and express their own feelings. Learning to identify emotions, and to talk about them openly, helps children understand that it is normal to experience ups and downs -and that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.

We also discussed a simple framework that anyone can use when checking in with others: ask the question, listen carefully, encourage positive steps, and check in again later. While these steps are straightforward, they can have a significant impact. Often it is the small gestures - sharing kind words, sitting with someone, or showing a willingness to listen - that provide comfort and connection.

Families play a vital role in continuing these conversations at home. Talking with your child about R U OK? Day is a valuable way to reinforce the importance of care and connection. You might ask them what they learned this week, or share examples of times when you have asked - or been asked - “Are you okay?” These small discussions send a strong message: that our homes, just like our classrooms, are safe spaces for honesty, listening, and support.

Together, as a school community, we are committed to fostering an environment where children feel safe to share their feelings, supported during challenges, and confident to look out for others. R U OK? Day serves as a valuable reminder that these skills extend beyond the classroom. By continuing these conversations at home -checking in with one another, listening with care, and encouraging openness - we can help our children understand that wellbeing is strengthened through connection, compassion, and support

Georgie Carman

Wellbeing Leader