At Port Melbourne Primary School (PMPS), we believe students learn best when they feel happy, safe, and connected. Wellbeing is the foundation for success at school and in life.
Our approach is proactive and inclusive. We aim to create a school environment where every student feels supported, valued, and confident to be themselves.
Wellbeing is not an add-on at PMPS. It is part of our daily school life. From the way teachers greet students each morning, to the lessons that build resilience and empathy, to the strong partnerships we have with families, wellbeing is part of our culture.
Our Wellbeing Team
PMPS has a dedicated wellbeing team of experienced mental health practitioners. They work closely with students, families, and staff.
Support is tailored to each child’s needs. This may include:
- advice on external support services
- one-on-one sessions
- small-group programs
- classroom strategies.
Accessing support
If you have a concern about your child’s wellbeing, please let us know.
1. Start with a conversation with your child’s classroom teacher.
2. If more support is needed, complete our referral and consent form. This can be done online or by collecting a copy from the school office.
3. The wellbeing team will review the referral and recommend the best support option.
This may involve:
- support from our wellbeing team, or
- recommendation or referral to an external specialist.
Families are kept informed and involved at every step.
Wellbeing dog
We are lucky to have a much-loved wellbeing dog, Alfie. He plays an important role in creating a calm and positive environment. Alfie takes part in structured activities that help students feel settled, build confidence and manage emotions.
External specialists & allied health
Our team partners with external specialists and allied health professionals. This ensures students have access to the right expertise at the right time.
Onsite psychologist services
We also provide an on-site consulting space for a third-party psychologist. This makes it easier for families to access support without leaving school grounds. Read more about MindCare Psychology Services.
Bullying Prevention and Response
Every staff member at PMPS plays a role in promoting student wellbeing. We provide regular training so our teachers are confident in supporting students, building positive relationships and responding quickly and effectively when issues arise.
Our approach to behaviour and relationships is clear, consistent and positive. We teach and model the values we expect.
Students learn how to:
- treat others with respect
- stand up for themselves and others
- repair relationships when mistakes occur.
Feeling safe is essential for learning. At PMPS, we teach students how to show respect and kindness.
We build a culture of respect by teaching students to be upstanders—people who speak out, offer support, and take positive action when they see unkind behaviour.
If bullying does occur, we respond quickly and with care. Our approach is restorative. This means we focus on:
- repairing harm
- rebuilding trust
- learning from mistakes
Restorative processes involve listening to everyone affected, acknowledging harm, and agreeing on clear steps to make things right.
Read our Bullying Prevention Policy (PDF) for full details.
More than support
Our focus is not only on responding to needs but also on prevention.
PMPS wellbeing programs include:
- social and emotional learning
- small-group programs that build confidence and friendships
- leadership opportunities that strengthen connection
At PMPS, every child is known, valued, and supported to thrive both in the classroom and beyond.