Project Structure
The Project
Our Solution: A Whole-School Community Approach
The Anxiety Project is built on the premise that while 30% of anxiety may be genetic, 70% is learned—and can therefore be unlearned. We move schools away from "unhelpful accommodations" (such as allowing avoidance behaviors) toward a culture of resilience and engagement – adopting a “Have A Go” philosophy.
Methodology
Our curriculum utilises Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, the gold standard for treating anxiety. We train teachers and parents in "serve and return" conversational strategies—coaching children through "hot" emotional moments and helping them reframe difficulties during "cold" rational moments. This helps students develop an internal locus of control (associated with higher academic performance and lower anxiety) and become emotional problem-solvers.
This is a comprehensive two-year commitment designed to embed lasting change by training all significant adults in a child’s life:
For Staff: Professional learning to build a "common language" regarding anxiety. Schools appoint specialist Implementation Coaches (ICs) who receive training and release time to support their peers and become in school experts.
For Parents and Carers: Access to the "Anxiety Coach" program (in-person or online), ensuring that strategies used at home mirror those used in the classroom.
For Students: Delivery of stage-aligned lessons, fully integrated with the PDHPE syllabus, teaching "return-to-calm" skills and resilient thinking skills.
Research-Driven Implementation
We don't just guess; we measure. The project includes rigorous data collection at three intervals (Baseline T0, 6-months T1, 12-months T2) using tools like the Macquarie University School Anxiety Scale and the Family Accommodation Scale.
Current Reach: The project currently spans 142 schools, involving school leaders, teachers, and parents, ultimately benefiting over 50,000 students.