Friend-o-Leaders!

The Friend-o-Leader program at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Pinjarra empowers Year 5 and 6 students to support younger peers with friendship challenges, promoting a safe, inclusive playground culture. Grounded in the URSTRONG framework and aligned with Quality Catholic Education goals, the initiative fosters student voice, leadership, and wellbeing. Friend-o-Leaders, easily identified in high-vis gear and URSTRONG lanyards, help resolve minor conflicts using shared language and strategies. Staff report fewer playground incidents, and students describe the school as a kind and supportive environment. With strong parent engagement and a whole-school approach, the program has significantly strengthened pastoral care and community connectedness.