Schools encouraged to join Respectful Relationships initiative

THE Victorian government is funding the expansion of a program aimed at teaching children how to build healthy relationships to more schools across the state, with local schools encouraged to get behind the initiative.

Education Minister Ben Carroll visited Kardinia International College in Bell Post Hill alongside Lara MP Ella George late last month to announce the launch of an expression of interest process for local Catholic and independent schools interested in rolling out the Respectful Relationships program.

Established in 2016 following an initial pilot in 2015, the Respectful Relationships program takes a whole-school approach to respect and equality and aims to teach children and young people how to apply social skills in a positive way to their learning, life and relationships.

Mr Carroll said the initiative, which has already been taken up by more than Victorian 2,000 schools, supports schools to “embed a culture of respect and equality across their entire school community”.

“Respectful Relationships has been a success thanks to the commitment of government, independent and Catholic sector schools to ensure students are given the resources they need to thrive.”

Expressions of interest to join the Respectful Relationships program are open until May 15, with start-up funding of up to $20,000 over two years available.

Ms George said young people should feel safe at school and in the community. “This program plays an important part in creating cultural change to ensure young people, especially young women, are respected and supported.”

Previous evaluations of the Respectful Relationships program have found improved social and emotional skills are the most significant impacts for students, with many reporting a better understanding of their feelings, improved ability to communicate their needs and increased empathy for others.

Kardinia International College principal Catherine Lockhart said Respectful Relationships “aligns seamlessly” with the school’s motto of ‘Wisdom, Respect and Friendship’.

Head to vic.gov.au/respectful-relationships