Respectful Relationships

This term in Respectful Relationships, students have been learning about the many different ways we can be safe, kind and respectful at school. Across the cohorts, we have used stories, visuals, Key Word Sign, AAC, games, songs, role-play and hands-on activities to help students explore these ideas in a way that suits their learning needs.

One of our big focuses has been help-seeking. Students have been learning who can help them at school, how to ask for help, and what it looks like when someone helps us. Some classes have connected this learning to The Very Hungry Caterpillar, thinking about how we all grow and change with support from the people around us.

We have also spent time learning about feelings and choices. Students have practised recognising feelings such as happy, sad, angry, calm and upset. We have talked about what might happen when feelings get big, and practised safe ways to ask for help, take a break or use a calming strategy.

Our mentor texts have helped make these ideas more concrete. Goldilocks and the Three Bears has helped students think about “just right” choices, safe hands, kind words and helpful actions. The Very Super Bear has supported learning about personal strengths and how we can use our strengths to help others. Older students have explored problem-solving, teamwork, creativity and positive choices through books such as The Imagineer, The Tomorrow Book, The Bad Seed and The Good Egg.

Another important theme has been belonging. Students have explored the idea that everyone belongs in different ways, and that we can help others feel included by sharing, waiting, helping and being together. We have also talked about respect, difference and fairness, including the idea that everyone can show strengths, make choices, be gentle, be brave and be part of the group.

It has been lovely to see students engaging with the learning in so many different ways — pointing to visuals, using signs, making choices, joining in discussions, creating artwork and working together. Respectful Relationships continues to give students opportunities to practise the everyday skills that help make Hamlyn Views School a safe, caring and respectful place to learn.