We celebrated “Mean on Purpose No Way Day” at Craigburn Primary School, our adapted name for the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.  This change is part of our adoption of the Friendology 101 curriculum, which emphasises the use of common and consistent language to guide students in managing conflict healthily. The term “Mean on Purpose” specifically targets the behaviour rather than labelling students, aiming to reduce the stigma associated with bullying.

Throughout the week students have learnt ways to embrace their individuality, respect differences, and stand up against unkindness. They are also learning the importance of speaking up and creating a safe, supportive environment where everyone’s voice is valued.

We celebrated “Mean on Purpose No Way Day” with a whole school assembly where every class shared insightful learning of the qualities needed to be a good friend.

These qualities are depicted below.

The URSTRONG program has continued to be implemented throughout the school this week. Students from Reception to Year 6 engaged in ‘Friendology’ lessons tailored to their developmental stages:

• Reception to Year 2: Focused on naming and embracing positive and negative feelings.
• Years 3 and 4: Learned strategies for making new friends, including how to introduce themselves and start conversations that could lead to new friendships.
• Years 5 and 6: Anchored in the “truths” of friendship, helping them set realistic expectations in relationships and practice the art of conversation.

A reminder parents have access to a FREE URSTRONG parent membership to access hundreds of resources – including an 8-session video series. This will allow you to learn the same language & strategies being taught in the classroom through the Friendology 101 curriculum. We hope that, as a URSTRONG Family, you will reinforce the important messages of empowerment, self-compassion, & kindness at home.

This week we encourage all parents to watch the video “Session 2: How to Make Friends” available in the parent membership section of the website. Then, have a chat with your child about what they learned in Lesson 2.

Janine McKay                                    Nicky Taylor

Student Wellbeing Leader              Deputy Principal