Our Three Year MTSS journey at Holy Cross School

Where it all started - Tier 1

In 2023, CEDC schools across Cairns initiated the implementation of the Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) under the leadership of Dr. Shiralee Poed from the University of Queensland. MTSS is a holistic framework designed to address students' academic, behavioural, and social-emotional needs through a structured, tiered system of interventions.

In 2023, Holy Cross School primarily focused on revising its Tier 1 interventions. Tier 1 supports consist of universal, school-wide strategies designed to promote learning and prevent behavioural challenges, serving approximately 80% of students. As part of this initiative, staff and students collaboratively updated the Holy Cross Expectations to: Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be an Active Learner.

Additionally, staff and students collaborated to update the Holy Cross Expectations Matrix, which outlines the expected behaviour across various areas within the school.

During this period, there was a strong emphasis on professional development for all staff members. Opportunities were provided to enhance skills in both positive support strategies and high-impact engagement strategies. Additionally, students and staff collaboratively reviewed the existing 'Acknowledgements Systems' at Holy Cross, which are designed to positively recognise when students demonstrate expected behaviours.

The final stage of Tier 1 involved the development of our Behaviour Response Continuum (SBS Chart). This document outlines the various responses staff may employ when students are unable to meet established expectations. These responses include positive behaviour management strategies, regulation support, circuit breakers, as well as acts of service and reflective conversations when necessary.

For further details, please visit our website:  https://www.holycross.qld.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Whole-School-Behaviour-Support-Plan-2025.pdf

In my next update, I will share insights into our progress from 2024 to the present and illustrate how Holy Cross School continues to support students who require additional and targeted assistance through the Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports.