Positive relationships and inclusion are foundational to Mulgrave Primary School’s thriving school environment, as they foster a sense of belonging, respect and connection among students, staff and the wider school community. Building and maintaining positive relationships encourages collaboration, empathy and trust, which are essential for both social and academic success.
Inclusion ensures that every student, regardless of their background, abilities or experiences, feels valued and supported in their learning journey.
This element of the Wellbeing Framework focuses on creating opportunities for all students to actively participate in school life, promoting diversity and celebrating individuality. By embedding inclusive practices and nurturing meaningful relationships, Mulgrave Primary School provides opportunities for students to strengthen resilience, self-esteem and academic engagement.
This commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment ensures that every student feels empowered to achieve their potential and contribute positively to the school community.
*This framework element is linked to ‘Friendship’ in the ‘Junior School Wellbeing Framework’*
Key Aspects
There are a variety of key aspects at Mulgrave Primary School that support the framework element
‘Positive Relationships and Inclusion’:
· Cohort specific Wellbeing lessons
To meet student needs, Wellbeing lessons can be structured to address specific requirements for a cohort of students, allowing them to contribute actively to relevant topics in a timely manner. This allows students to continue to communicate effectively and foster positive relationships with peers and school staff.
· Transition Sessions
Mulgrave Primary School completes three transition sessions at the end of the school year. During these sessions, students have the opportunity to meet their new classroom teacher and peers. This provides a foundation to establish rapport, develop positive connections and ensure students feel comfortable throughout the change.
· Diverse Learners Hub
“The Diverse Learners Hub is a key initiative of Disability Inclusion(opens in a new window). It's also the flagship of the Autism Education Strategy.”
“This aligns with the government’s Education State vision for Victoria, creating great schools that are inclusive of every student who enters through the school gate. The Hub is a centre of excellence that provides evidence-based advice, resources and guidance on meeting the learning and wellbeing needs and aspirations of diverse learners.”
https://www.vic.gov.au/diverse-learners-hub
· Student Lead Campaigns and Activities
Through a range of student-initiated campaigns and activities, including Anti-Bullying Week and Walk Safely to School Day, students have opportunities to feel a greater connection to school and the broader community. This inherent link between student voice and inclusion allows students at Mulgrave Primary school to continue developing positive relationships with peers, school staff and members of the community.
· Lunchtime Clubs
During lunch breaks, students are invited to attend daily Lunchtime Clubs.
These clubs are influenced by students’ choice, recognising their ideas and meeting their needs. In each Lunchtime Club, students have further opportunities to build meaningful relationships with their peers, develop social skills and form stranger connections within the school environment.
· Harmony Week
Initiatives to promote inclusion and diversity are embraced by students, staff and the community at Mulgrave Primary School. Educational opportunities during Harmony Week provide students with the chance to engage in deeper conversations about recognising and celebrating diversity, encouraging inclusion and understanding empathy.