Wellbeing

On Tuesday, staff participated in a professional learning session focused on strengthening our understanding of neurodiversity and inclusive education practices. The session explored how students experience learning in different ways and how schools can better support a wide range of learning profiles.

A key theme of the session was neurodiversity-affirming practice—recognising that differences in thinking, learning and processing information are a natural part of human diversity. 

Staff explored the characteristics of different neurotypes, including ADHD and autism, and discussed how understanding these differences helps us respond to students’ needs more effectively.

We also examined the idea that behaviour is a form of communication. Rather than focusing only on the behaviour we see, staff discussed how to look for the function of behaviour—what a student may be trying to communicate or achieve through their actions. Considering behaviour from both the student perspective and the teacher perspective helps us respond in ways that support learning, wellbeing and positive relationships.

We hope to continue to expand school knowledge on how to best support all students through further professional development, reading and ongoing improvement across all tiers of support. 

SWPBS Update

We are also continuing to develop our School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework.

Currently the SWPBS team is planning for how we will begin explicitly teaching the expected behaviours from our school behaviour matrix, helping students clearly understand what positive behaviours look like in different school settings.

At assembly, we will also introduce an SWPBS Spotlight, over the next three weeks we will highlight one aspect of our school values and recognise how students can demonstrate these.

Before the end of term, you may also notice a new SWPBS display outside the library, which will share updates, highlight our focus behaviours, and celebrate positive examples from across the school throughout the term.

Together, these initiatives support our goal of creating a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment where every student can thrive.

Joanne Weston

Wellbeing and Inclusion Leader