School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS)

At O’Sullivan Beach Primary School we believe in nurturing success through positive behaviour.

What is SWPBS?

School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support is an evidence-based approach that creates a positive school climate where appropriate behaviour becomes the norm for all students. SWPBS provides a framework for creating engaging learning environments focused on:

  • Establishing clear expectations
  • Teaching positive behaviours
  • Acknowledging and reinforcing good choices
  • Supporting students through three tiers of intervention

Benefits of SWPBS

When implemented effectively, SWPBS creates a school environment where:

  • Students demonstrate more respectful and positive behaviour
  • Teachers spend more time on instruction and less on behaviour management
  • Students and staff enjoy improved social-emotional wellbeing
  • School community members develop positive, respectful relationships
  • The school environment becomes safer and more orderly

Our SWPBS Framework

1. Common Purpose & Approach

At O’Sullivan Beach Primary School, we share a common language to discuss behaviour. Our philosophy emphasises teaching appropriate behaviour just like academic subjects.

2. Clear Expectations & Values

Our four school-wide expectations are:

  • Co-operation
  • Achievement
  • Respect
  • Empathy

These values guide our expected behaviours across all school settings, which are clearly defined in our Student Behaviour Matrix.

3. Teaching Expected Behaviours

We explicitly teach expected behaviours using a consistent approach:

  • Teach the behaviour and why it’s important
  • Model what the behaviour looks like
  • Provide opportunities to practice
  • Give feedback and reinforcement
  • Reteach when necessary

4. Encouraging Positive Behaviours

Our “O’Sullies Champions” program acknowledges students who demonstrate our school values:

  • Students earn merits for displaying expected behaviours
  • Every 25 merits completes an O’Sullies Champions card
  • Milestone rewards celebrate consistent positive behaviour
  • We aim to “catch students being good” with a positive approach

5. Responding to Unexpected Behaviours

We use a “Traffic Light System” that:

  • Distinguishes between minor (classroom-managed) and major (office-managed) behaviours
  • Provides clear procedures for responding to different situations
  • Uses Orange Cards for non-urgent support and Red Cards for immediate assistance
  • Ensures consistent, fair responses to behaviour challenges

6. Monitoring & Evaluation

We continuously improve our approach through:

  • Data collection in GradeXpert
  • Regular reviews of behaviour incidents
  • Self-assessment and peer observation
  • Team meetings to discuss progress

SWPBS in Action

In classrooms with effective SWPBS implementation:

  • Teachers take a preventative, proactive approach to behaviour
  • Expectations are clearly stated and displayed
  • Students receive specific positive feedback
  • Behavioural errors are viewed as learning opportunities
  • Classrooms function with minimal disruptions and a strong learning focus
  • Positive, respectful relationships flourish between students and staff

For more information about our SWPBS program, please contact the school office.