“Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything”

Muhammad Ali

Friendship is one of the most important parts of school and whilst it is not explicitly taught in academic classes, it is something that permeates all aspects of a child’s day while in our school community. Friends help make our students feel supported, boost their mood, and even help them learn better. But like anything meaningful, friendship takes effort, patience, and the right skills.

Here are some science-backed tips to be a great friend and build positive, long-lasting relationships that can be discussed and put into action with your child.

1. Practice Active Listening

Dr. Carl Rogers, a famous psychologist, believed that really listening to someone is one of the best ways to build trust. Instead of just waiting for your turn to speak, try to understand how your friend is feeling. Make eye contact, nod, and say things like, “That sounds tough” or “I get it.”

Tip: Put your phone down when a friend is talking. Small move, big impact!

2. Understand Different Perspectives

Sometimes you won’t agree with your friends—and that’s okay! Psychologist Daniel Goleman says understanding others' feelings and points of view is key to strong social connections.

Try This: When you disagree, say “I see where you’re coming from” before sharing your opinion.

3. Set Healthy Boundaries

Good friends respect each other’s time, energy, and space. It's okay to say no sometimes. In fact, setting boundaries shows maturity and helps avoid resentment.

Say: “I’d love to hang out, but I need some time to chill today. Can we plan for tomorrow?”

4. Be Loyal and Kind

Kindness and loyalty are two of the most valued traits in friendships. That means standing by your friends, supporting them, and avoiding gossip or talking behind others backs.

Friendship is a Skill—You Can Grow It!

Friendships won’t always be perfect. You’ll have ups and downs. But with empathy, honesty, and a bit of effort, you’ll become someone others are lucky to call a friend.

Year 8 Shout Outs:

• Congratulations to Lola Ciavarella who showed great sportsmanship and helped another school at the Diocesan Swimming Carnival by swimming for their school, so they were not disqualified.
• Bravo to Seilose Hemaloto-Makoni, Ava Siulai, Armani Howarth, Lylah Hall, Saxby Connor, Carter Morgan, Zak Wiseman, Kobi Rae, Lincoln O’Brien and Tyson Eddie who performed at the Harmony Day Ceremony.
• Well done to Darcy Richards, Tyson Eddie, Oliver Fraser, Burston Pulivea, Masi Tupou, Tyson Eddie, Max Fischer, Brax Bashford, Kobi Rae, Reid Surdonjic, Flynn Nilsson, Koby Jones, Jack McCarthy and Patrick Ware who participated in the Rugby League Cochrane Cup.
• Congratulations to Ava Martin, Indi Hancock, Evie Reid, Grace Headley, Daphne Porter and Ruby Flannery who won the Stage 4 Diocesan Drama Challenge.

Any questions or queries please feel free to email me on Meredith.macdonald@mn.catholic.edu.au or call on 40147300.

Meredith MacDonald, Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement Year 8