Student Wellbeing
SWPBS Update at Greenhills: Introducing “Be Kind”
At Greenhills Primary School, our School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework plays an important role in creating a calm, consistent and supportive learning environment. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we regularly seek feedback from students, staff and our broader community.
After thoughtful consultation and reflection at the end of last year, we are excited to share an important update to our SWPBS language. We have changed “Be Connected” to “Be Kind.”
This change reflects the voice of our students, teachers and families. While connection remains incredibly important, our community felt that kindness more clearly captures the behaviours, language and actions we want to see lived out every day across our school.
Our 3 SWPBS Expectations
We Are Responsible
Responsibility is emphasised by teaching students to take ownership of their actions, make positive choices, and contribute to a respectful and productive learning environment. When students are responsible, they help create classrooms where everyone can learn and feel successful. Across the school this looks like:
- Following school rules and staff instructions
- Returning to class promptly and using learning time wisely
- Listening to the speaker
- Looking after belongings and our environment
- Wearing our uniform correctly
- Being aware of our digital footprint in online spaces
We Are Safe
Ensuring safety involves creating a secure and supportive atmosphere where students feel protected and valued. When students feel safe, they are more confident, engaged and ready to learn. This includes:
- Keeping hands and feet to ourselves
- Moving safely around the school
- Following rules in play spaces and wearing hats outdoors
- Using equipment appropriately
- Keeping personal details private online
- Washing hands and using spaces for their intended purpose
We Are Kind
Kindness is about how we treat one another. It builds belonging, strengthens relationships and creates a positive school culture where everyone feels seen, respected and valued.
Kindness is more than just being nice, it is an active choice. At Greenhills, being kind looks like:
- Using respectful language
- Being inclusive and respecting diversity
- Respecting others’ privacy
- Showing empathy to everyone
- Supporting others in their learning
- Listening to each other
- Responding appropriately
- Sharing play spaces
- Taking turns and compromising
- Posting only constructive and positive content online
By explicitly teaching and recognising kindness, we are helping students develop empathy, emotional intelligence and strong social skills. These are all qualities that support lifelong wellbeing and success.
Why the Change Matters
The feedback we received was that the language of 'Be Connected’ did not resonate with our students and community. By moving to Be Kind, we are making our expectations clearer, more visible and more meaningful for students. It gives them a simple, powerful guide for how to act in classrooms, playgrounds, online spaces and beyond the school gate.
Kindness strengthens connection and when students feel connected, safe and responsible, learning thrives.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to work together to make Greenhills the GREAT place it is. If you have any questions about our SWPBS framework, please feel free to speak with a member of the leadership team.
Janine Hough Brad Ryan
janine.hough@education.vic.gov.au Bradley.Ryan@education.vic.gov.au
