fbpx
  • February 4, 2025

10 Tips for Implementing Rock and Water in Your School

10 Tips for Implementing Rock and Water in Your School

10 Tips for Implementing Rock and Water in Your School 960 720 Rock and Water Program

As a member of the executive team in three different high schools in New South Wales, I have significant experience in implementing the Rock and Water program within a school setting. Newly trained Rock and Water teachers, eager to begin while their training is still fresh, may benefit from considering some examples of implementation and being aware of potential challenges.

When first introduced to the program in 1999, I outlined my plan to the principal, aiming to engage disengaged, angry boys with this innovative program. The initial resistance encountered was related to cost, as the principal questioned how the program would be funded without taking whole classes, thus requiring additional cover for my other classes. To address this, I began teaching the program to entire classes, inclusive of both boys and girls. This approach demonstrated that the program also engaged girls effectively, promoting social and emotional skills through various activities described in the manual. However, this method did not allow targeted focus on boys needing intensive support for self-control, emotional regulation, and physical outlets for frustration.

As the program gained wider recognition, funding became available. Once I progressed to head teacher and later deputy principal, it became easier to fund and schedule the program. Key lessons learned include:

  • Ensure the executive team is well-informed about the program, secure support from a champion on the executive team, and integrate the program into the school management plan.
  • Start with smaller groups to practice delivery skills and timing before expanding to whole classes.
  • Avoid beginning with the most challenging students. Include well-behaved role models alongside challenging students to leverage positive peer influence. Branding the program as a Leadership Program can add prestige.
  • Determine the overall strategy: whether to teach whole class groups for broad impact (Tier one for PBL schools) or target smaller groups for intervention (Tier two for PBL). For an intervention approach, small groups of 8 to 12 students are recommended.
  • Inform parents about the benefits and physical nature of the program through an “opt out” letter to minimise administrative burden.
  • Brief staff about the program goals, common language, and activities. Demonstrating games and reflections during staff meetings can foster understanding and support.
  • Utilise a co-facilitator to ensure smooth sessions and manage issues discreetly.
  • Promote the program on the school website and Facebook page to keep the community informed and engaged.
  • Encourage broader staff involvement by inviting colleagues to attend training, thereby building a solid foundation for ongoing program implementation.
  • Celebrate Rock and Water graduations meaningfully by involving parents, providing certificates, completing journals, and recognizing student achievements with the principal’s presence.

Brian Hayes is the Director of Rock and Water Australia. With 26 years in education as a high school history teacher and deputy principal, Brian has taught the program since 1999. After delivering Rock and Water training for the Family Action Centre from 2006, Brian was invited to manage the Rock and Water program in NSW, ACT, and Tasmania in 2014. From 2025, he will coordinate Rock and Water training across Australia.