Behaviour Matters with Mrs Powell
Rock and Water at St Matthew’s – Building Strength, Confidence and Connection
This term, Year 5 students at St Matthew’s Primary School will be taking part in the internationally recognised Rock and Water program during Term 2. This highly engaging program uses a combination of physical activity, reflection and discussion to help students develop inner strength, self-control and respectful communication.
Originally developed in the Netherlands, Rock and Water began as a martial arts-based strategy to support children who were being targeted by bullies. Rather than relying solely on adult intervention, which can often be less effective in the long term, the program teaches children how to recognise, respond to and manage difficult situations themselves. It builds confidence by showing students how to remain strong without being aggressive, and how to walk away from intimidation with a sense of dignity and pride.
The program’s central metaphors — rock (representing strength, firmness and setting boundaries) and water (representing flexibility, empathy and cooperation) — help students explore different ways to respond to social situations. They learn that both qualities are valuable, and that the key is knowing which one to use and when.
Why Rock and Water for Year 5?
Year 5 is a critical stage of social and emotional development. Students are learning how to navigate friendships, manage emotions and handle increasing responsibility. Rock and Water supports this growth by helping students to:
- Recognise body signals and emotions, especially during stress or confrontation
- Develop strong posture, eye contact and assertive communication to build confidence
- Establish and defend personal boundaries in respectful ways
- Respond to bullying or peer pressure using calm, powerful strategies rather than aggression
- Reflect on their own behaviour and build empathy through discussion and partner work
The martial arts foundation of the program provides students with a hands-on way to explore concepts such as self-discipline, awareness of space and grounded movement. It is especially effective for kinaesthetic learners and those who benefit from physically active learning.
By the end of the term, students will have a deeper understanding of how to navigate challenges with resilience, respond to conflict with calm confidence and build strong, respectful relationships with their peers.
If you would like to learn more about Rock and Water or how it will be delivered in Year 5, please feel free to contact me.
Rachel Powell
Curriculum Coordinator