Empowering Upstanders: Introducing The Stand-Up Project at Our School
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are thrilled to introduce The Stand-Up Project (SUP), an initiative provided by the Department of Education Mental Health Menu, to our students in Years 5 & 6. Our school is collaborating with SUP to help develop student agency, fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for students.
SUP is an innovative, evidence-based program that takes a whole-school approach to reducing discrimination, harassment and bullying. By bringing together students, teachers, and parents, the program aims to build a community where everyone feels valued and safe.
A Peer-Led Approach to Social Change
At the heart of SUP is a peer-led model that empowers students to become Upstanders—positive role models who actively promote respectful and supportive behaviours. Selected Student Leaders will guide their peers in developing strategies that create lasting, positive social change in the way they interact with each other.
This leadership opportunity helps students build essential life skills, including empathy, critical thinking, and teamwork—skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.
What Makes SUP Unique?
Secular and Inclusive: SUP does not promote any particular beliefs or values. Instead, it offers a supportive framework to help school communities better understand and respond to issues like bullying, discrimination, and harassment.
Safe Storytelling: Through guided, respectful discussions, students explore complex topics such as mental health, harmful behaviours, and respectful relationships, using real-life scenarios to deepen understanding.
Whole-Community Engagement: SUP involves sessions tailored for students, staff, and parents, ensuring everyone plays a role in creating lasting change.
What Parents Can Expect
The SUP Program Fosters:
Strong student voice and leadership
Interactive activities and class-developed plans
Storytelling techniques that are safe and respectful
Clear pathways for students to seek support
Resources and ongoing support for home conversations
Thought-provoking conversations that inspire critical reflection and action
Key Program Dates
Session 1 – The Basics (June 10): Understanding the drivers and impact of discrimination, bullying, and harassment. Students will also learn the “Four D’s” of being an Upstander.
Session 2 – Plan + Practice (June 10): Classes develop and rehearse strategies to extend the program beyond the classroom.
Sessions 3 & 4 – Teach (July 23 - Staff, July 24 - Parents): Student Leaders teach both their teachers and parents how to support them in their roles as Upstanders.
Session 5 – Reflect (October 16): Students evaluate the program’s impact and discuss opportunities for improvement.
We invite parents of Year 5 & 6 students to attend the parent session in Term 3 on 24th July and get involved in supporting this student-led initiative. Please indicate your ability to attend by responding to the Compass Event. Together, we can empower our students to be the drivers of positive social change.
To learn more, visit www.thestandupproject.com. You can also speak with Kate Egan (School Council member and parent representative on the Wellbeing & Engagement Team), Francine Dudfield (parent) or a member of the Principal Class Team – Stephania Johnson-Turner, Anthea Argent or Melanie French if you have any questions about this project.
Thank you for your continued support in helping us create a thriving, safe, and inclusive school community.
Warm regards,
Seaford Park Primary School Wellbeing & Engagement Team
Ms Melanie French, Assistant Principal & Ms Anthea Argent, Acting Assistant Principal
