Wellbeing
willowbank primary school
Wellbeing
Kimochis Program
The Kimochis program is embedded in Years Prep to 2 and is an evidence-based, fun and an engaging way to develop emotional wellbeing and positive relationships.
Through the Kimochis program, students meet lovable characters who each represent different feelings and personalities. These characters help students learn to recognise and manage their emotions, communicate clearly, show empathy, and solve problems thoughtfully.
With Kimochis, students gain practical tools to make responsible choices, handle challenges kindly, and build lasting friendships. These skills not only help students succeed at school but also support their confidence and happiness throughout life.
Meet Benny – Our School’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Dog
Benny, is our support dog here at Willowbank Primary School. Benny’s role is to help create a calm, welcoming environment where students feel safe, supported, and understood.
Benny is trained to provide comfort and companionship to children who might be feeling anxious, upset, or overwhelmed. Whether it’s offering a friendly nudge during a tough day or simply being there to listen without judgment, Benny helps our students build confidence and manage their emotions.
Having Benny around encourages kindness, reduces stress, and helps students develop positive social skills. He’s an important member of our school community, helping everyone feel connected and cared for.
The Resilience Project at Willowbank Primary School
The Resilience Project is an important part of our wellbeing program for Years 3 to 6, teaching students practical strategies to manage stress, stay positive, and bounce back from challenges.
Through engaging lessons and activities, students learn skills like gratitude, mindfulness, empathy and emotional literacy. These tools help students understand their emotions, develop empathy, and build a positive mindset that supports their wellbeing both in school and beyond.
The Resilience Project encourages students to take care of their mental health, develop healthy habits, and foster kindness and connection with others. Our goal is to empower students with the confidence and skills they need to thrive now and in the future.
School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) at Willowbank Primary School
School Wide Positive Behaviour (SWPB) is an evidence-based approach to supporting and promoting positive behaviour in schools. It is a proactive system that focuses on encouraging students to demonstrate respectful, responsible, and safe behaviours in all aspects of school life. The SWPB framework aims to create a positive and consistent school environment where students can thrive both socially and academically.
At Willowbank Primary School, we believe it is important to not only manage challenging behaviours but to actively recognise and reinforce positive actions. By doing this, we encourage students to continue making good choices and develop valuable social skills. Research has shown that when positive behaviours are consistently acknowledged, students are more likely to feel motivated, engaged, and supported in their learning.
Willow Bucks
In 2024, we worked together to develop the Willow Bucks acknowledgement system that reflects our school values and is meaningful to our students.
Each student has the opportunity to earn Willow Bucks (tokens) by demonstrating positive behaviours in all areas of school life. Whether it’s showing respect, responsibility, kindness, or effort, students can be recognised for a wide range of behaviours that align with our school values. When a student collects 10 Willow Bucks, they will earn an individual reward. In addition to the reward, students will receive a certificate to take home, so families can celebrate their child’s achievement.
In addition to individual rewards, our Homegroups work towards a class-based reward. Each homegroup displays a ‘Willow Bank’, where students work together to collect Willow Bucks as a group. Once the class Willow Bank is filled, the entire class earns a reward, encouraging teamwork and shared responsibility for creating a positive classroom environment.
On a broader level, the school as a whole works towards a whole school reward. There is a large Willow Bank display at our reception, and as we fill it with Willow Bucks collected across the school, we unlock a whole school reward that we collectively work towards achieving. This reinforces the idea that when we work together and encourage positive behaviours school-wide, we all benefit.
Recess and Lunchtime Clubs
Recess and lunchtime clubs give students the chance to explore new interests, build friendships, and develop important skills outside the classroom. Our clubs provide a safe and supportive space to try new things and connect with others.
Joining these clubs helps students:
- Build confidence and teamwork skills
- Develop creativity and problem-solving abilities
- Make new friends and strengthen social connections
- Enjoy a positive and active break from learning
Recess and lunchtime clubs are a great way for students to relax, have fun, and feel a strong sense of belonging at school.
Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships (RRRR)
Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships (RRRR) program supports students’ social, emotional, and personal development. This evidence-based program teaches important life skills such as emotional awareness, positive coping, respectful communication, problem-solving, and understanding of rights and responsibilities. Through engaging, age-appropriate lessons, students learn how to build healthy relationships, manage emotions, and treat others with respect. The program also promotes gender equality and inclusion, helping to create a safe, supportive and respectful school environment for all.
