We are committed to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can succeed. One of the ways we achieve this is through our School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework. SWPBS is an evidence-based approach used in many Victorian schools to teach and encourage positive behaviour, helping students understand what respectful and responsible behaviour looks like in different settings across the school.

Behaviour Expectation Matrix

A key part of our SWPBS framework is our Behaviour Expectation Matrix. This matrix clearly outlines the behaviours we expect from students in different areas of the school such as the classroom, playground, toilets and during transitions. Rather than assuming students already know how to behave in these settings, we explicitly teach and model the behaviours that help our school run smoothly.

Our expectations are built around the three core values of Teamwork, Respect and Responsibility, with the overarching goal of consistently Being Your Best.

• Teamwork means working cooperatively, including others and helping each other succeed.
• Respect means treating people, property and the environment with care and kindness.
• Responsibility means making safe choices, following instructions and taking ownership of our actions.

Teachers explicitly teach and regularly revisit the matrix with students, using modelling, discussion and role-play to reinforce these expectations. This consistent language across the school helps students understand what positive behaviour looks like and allows staff to respond consistently.

Recognising Positive Behaviour – Kanga Gotchas

At Kangaroo Flat Primary School we strongly believe that recognising positive behaviour encourages students to continue making good choices. Our school reward system is called Kanga Gotchas. When students demonstrate our school values of teamwork, respect or responsibility, staff members can award them a Kanga Gotcha. These acknowledgements celebrate students who are demonstrating positive behaviours such as helping a peer, showing kindness, following instructions, or taking responsibility for their learning and environment. Students collect their Kanga Gotchas and add them to their individual chart. This system helps build a positive school culture where good choices are noticed and celebrated.

Building a Positive School Culture

Our SWPBS framework, Behaviour Expectation Matrix and Kanga Gotcha reward system work together to create a consistent and positive approach to behaviour across the school. By explicitly teaching expectations and recognising positive actions, we help students develop the social and emotional skills they need to thrive both at school and in the wider community.

At Kangaroo Flat Primary School, we are proud of a culture where teamwork, respect and responsibility guide the way we learn, play and grow together.