Schools ask R U OK?

On September 8, local Phillip Island schools, staff, students, and families dressed in yellow to raise awareness for, and throw their support behind, National R U OK? Day.

The R U OK? initiative aims to “inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with the people around them and to start a conversation with those in their world who may be struggling with life”.

It has a strong emphasis on reminding you that “you don’t have to be an expert to reach out – just a good friend and a great listener”.

"A day like this allows staff to reflect and check in on each other and ensure we are creating environments where students feel connected, a sense of belonging and that they are truly cared for and supported by the staff. This message is more important than ever,” said Lauren Hamer, San Remo Primary School teacher and Wellbeing team member.

Cowes Primary, San Remo Primary and Newhaven Primary all use the Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationship wellbeing program, that aims to equip students with the help seeking strategies they need when faced with challenges. Emotional Literacy, Positive Coping and Stress Management and other topics are explicitly taught by staff to ensure their students feel safe and supported in times of uncertainty. 

Throughout the day, all classes from all schools engaged in a variety of activities linked to kindness, empathy and ways to start the conversation of ‘are you okay?’.

All schools are encouraging members of the wider community to take time to connect and reach out to a mate. Remember, it’s a conversation that could change a life.

Four simple steps you can follow are:

1. ASK – ask your friend if they are OK?
2. LISTEN – let your friend tell you how they feel.
3. ENCOURAGE ACTION – tell a teacher or trusted adult.
4. CHECK IN – ask your friend if they are feeling better.

Simply listening and giving someone your time might be just what they need to help them through.

For more information please visit www.ruok.org.au/