By Tracy Thornton (Assistant Principal)

Building Respectful Relationships at Highton Primary

At Highton Primary School, we are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment where all students can thrive. We believe that developing strong social and emotional skills is essential for success, both in school and in life.

Respectful Relationships Education (RRE) is a key component of the Victorian Curriculum, and we integrate it into our programs from Foundation to Year 6. This ensures that students develop a strong foundation of respect, empathy, and the ability to build healthy relationships.

Our Approach to RRE

Early Years (Foundation - Year 2):
- Kimochis Program: This engaging and interactive program uses relatable characters to help our youngest students understand and manage their emotions. The Kimochis program also helps to create a positive and supportive school environment where open communication is encouraged. Through this program, children learn to become:
  - Respectful: by using kind words and actions and understanding the feelings of others.
  - Responsible: by standing up for themselves and others, and taking ownership of their mistakes.
  - Resilient: by developing the ability to work through emotions independently or with support, and to bounce back from challenges.
  - Compassionate and Kind: by showing empathy and concern for others and actively demonstrating kindness.
Upper Years (Years 3 - 6):
- The Resilience Project: This program provides students with practical tools to build resilience, foster positive relationships, and support their mental wellbeing.
- Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships Program: This comprehensive program explores eight key areas:
  - Emotional Literacy: developing the ability to recognize and express emotions in themselves and others.
  - Personal Strengths: identifying and appreciating their own strengths, as well as the strengths of their peers.
  - Positive Coping: developing healthy and effective strategies for managing challenging situations.
  - Problem-Solving: learning effective methods for navigating challenges and resolving conflicts.
  - Stress Management: building skills to cope with stress in a positive and healthy way.
  - Help-Seeking: understanding how to ask for and access support when needed.

Fostering a Culture of Respect

Respectful Relationships Education extends beyond the classroom. We are committed to embedding respect and equality into all aspects of school life, including in the playground, on the sporting field, and at social events.

By working together, we can cultivate a supportive and positive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.

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