Wellbeing
Our Approach
At Millwarra Primary School, wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. We know that when students feel safe, valued, and supported, they are best equipped to learn, grow, and thrive. Our approach is proactive, inclusive, and grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed practices, ensuring the emotional, social, and physical wellbeing of every child.
Wellbeing is a shared responsibility, and we recognise the vital role that families, educators, and the broader community play in supporting students. We work closely with families and external support services to ensure every child receives the care, guidance, and encouragement they need. Through strong relationships, open communication, and a deep understanding of trauma-informed approaches, we create a school environment where students feel secure, connected, and ready to engage in their learning with confidence.
Multi-Tiered Systems of Support
At Millwarra Primary School, we are committed to ensuring that every student receives the right level of care, guidance, and support. Our Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) provides a structured, evidence-based framework that allows us to proactively support all students, identify those who need additional assistance, and provide intensive interventions where required. Our approach is trauma-informed, inclusive, and responsive, ensuring that every child feels safe, supported, and equipped to succeed—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our Three-Tiered Approach:
Tier 1 – Whole School Approach
A proactive and preventative foundation that ensures all students benefit from a positive, inclusive school culture. This includes explicit teaching of expectations, Wellbeing lessons, and school-wide wellbeing initiatives.
Tier 2 – Targeted Support
For students who require extra assistance, we provide small group interventions focused on social, emotional, and behavioural development. These targeted supports help students build resilience, emotional regulation, and positive relationships in a structured and supportive environment.
Tier 3 – Intensive Individual Support
For students with more complex needs, we develop personalised plans in partnership with families, specialist services, and external agencies. These tailored supports ensure that every child receives specialised, high-impact strategies that address their unique challenges and strengths. Through MTSS, we create a learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive—no matter their starting point. Our structured, trauma-informed approach ensures that support is equitable, responsive, and aligned with each child’s individual needs.
Trauma Informed Positive Education (BSEM)
At Milwarra Primary School, our wellbeing approach is grounded in the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM), a trauma-informed, strengths-based framework that equips students with the skills to navigate challenges and engage in learning with confidence. By creating a safe, structured, and supportive environment, we ensure that all students can develop resilience, build positive relationships, and sustain engagement in their learning.
The Five Key Domains of BSEM
Our approach is structured around five key domains that help students develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of purpose:
- Body – Teaching self-regulation and de-escalation strategies to support emotional and physical wellbeing.
- Relationship – Strengthening connections between students, staff, and the broader community to create a culture of belonging.
- Stamina – Encouraging persistence, resilience, and sustained attention to learning.
- Engagement – Fostering curiosity, motivation, and meaningful learning experiences that keep students actively involved.
- Character – Helping students develop their personal strengths, self-awareness, and a sense of direction.
By embedding these principles into everyday school life, we support students to self-regulate, build confidence, and succeed—both academically and personally.
Respectful Relationships
A Whole-School Approach to Respect and Inclusion
Respectful Relationships is explicitly taught during Wellbeing, but is also embedded in our school policies and daily interactions, ensuring that students learn and experience:
- Emotional Literacy – Recognising, understanding, and managing emotions effectively.
- Personal Strengths – Identifying individual strengths and using them to build confidence and resilience.
- Positive Coping Strategies – Developing healthy ways to manage challenges and setbacks.
- Problem-Solving and Help-Seeking – Learning how to navigate social conflicts and access support when needed.
- Respect and Equality – Understanding diversity, challenging stereotypes, and promoting gender equality.
Student Leadership
At Millwarra Primary School, we believe that every student has the potential to lead. Leadership is nurtured at all year levels, with opportunities for students to develop confidence, responsibility, and the skills to make a positive impact—both formally and informally.
Grade 6 Leadership Opportunities
In Year 6, students are encouraged to take on formal leadership positions by submitting a written application outlining their strengths, skills, and vision for the role. These leadership positions provide students with authentic experiences in responsibility, teamwork, and decision-making, preparing them for success beyond primary school.
