Positive Behaviour for Learning
St Joseph’s Mernda implements the Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) framework, a whole-school, evidence-based approach that promotes safe, supportive, and consistent student engagement and wellbeing. It includes the explicit teaching of behavioural expectations, data-informed support, and strong home–school partnerships, underpinning positive and respectful relationships across the community.
Consistency is central to PBL. A clear and fair approach enables staff to teach, model, and reinforce expected behaviours while responding to challenges in a predictable and supportive way. This provides students with clarity and security, supporting engagement, self-regulation, and responsibility.
To ensure our practices remain current and effective, we work in partnership with Dr Shiralee Poed, an expert in the international PBL field and our PBL coach Jo-Ann Patrick (MACS). Their guidance supports our ongoing development and refinement of whole-school wellbeing practices.
These guidelines are grounded in Catholic Social Teaching, upholding the dignity of every person and promoting the common good. They foster respect, inclusion, and shared responsibility, supporting students to build compassionate relationships and live out Gospel values.
The St Joseph’s Mernda Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) Matrix outlines clear, consistent expectations and positive actions. Grounded in Catholic Social Teaching, it encourages students to respect others, do their best, and help others succeed. By living out these expectations, students contribute to a safe, inclusive, and faith-filled community where everyone is valued and able to flourish.