At KRB, our commitment to the wellbeing and formation of our students is at the heart of everything we do. For this reason, we are very pleased to be part of the Respectful Relationships pilot with Independent Schools NSW, an initiative that reflects both the values we hold as a school community and our responsibility to support students in navigating an increasingly complex world. 

Central to this work is the importance of listening to student voice. Our student’s experience social, cultural and digital pressures that are constantly evolving, and meaningful education in this area must begin with a genuine understanding of their lived experiences. When we create spaces where students feel safe to speak openly, we not only gain insight into the challenges they face, but we also affirm that their perspectives matter. This sense of being heard is foundational to trust, engagement and growth. In 2025, staff worked with groups of students and classes to listen to their voices and further understand some of the pressures they were facing. This work continues in 2026. 

The Respectful Relationships pilot supports us to build the capacity of our students in thoughtful and practical ways. It helps young people to recognise and understand the pressures that can arise in relationships, to respond appropriately and respectfully, and to develop the confidence to make decisions that protect their dignity and wellbeing. Learning how to say no, how to step away from situations that do not feel right, and how to seek support are essential skills for life — skills that empower our students to act with confidence, self-respect and agency. 

Importantly, this work extends beyond our students. The staff training undertaken in 2025 was of an exceptionally high quality and provided valuable professional learning for our teachers. It also highlighted the ongoing need to continue building staff capacity in this area, ensuring that our teachers and staff feel confident, informed and supported in guiding conversations about respectful relationships with clarity, care and consistency through our SELF + wellbeing programs. We are grateful to be part of a program that supports schools to work together in addressing such an important area of student wellbeing. 

I congratulate Independent Schools NSW on this important initiative and on their recognition through the LearnX international award. This acknowledgement highlights the significance of investing in respectful relationships education and the positive impact it can have on school communities like ours. 

At KRB, we are proud to be involved in this pilot again in 2026 and remain committed to nurturing confident, respectful and empowered children and teenagers who are equipped to make thoughtful choices and to thrive in all aspects of their lives.