Pink Shirt Day

Pink Shirt Day NZ – May 15th 2026 

How teachers and school staff can champion inclusion and support their school communities 

Pink Shirt Day is a powerful reminder of the role educators play in shaping safe, inclusive learning environments. At ANZUK, we believe that every learner thrives when they feel connected, valued, and supported and Pink Shirt Day gives schools a meaningful opportunity to bring those values to life. 

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, relief teacher, support staff member, or school leader, you have the ability to influence culture in ways that ripple far beyond a single day. 

Why Pink Shirt Day Matters for Educators 

Pink Shirt Day aligns with what educators do best: build relationships, nurture belonging, and model the behaviours we want to see in our communities. It’s a chance to: 

• Strengthen school culture through shared values 

• Promote student wellbeing with simple, meaningful activities 

• Empower upstanders to speak up safely 

• Model inclusive practice in everyday interactions 

For educators, Pink Shirt Day isn’t an add‑on—it’s a natural extension of the work you already do to create safe, supportive spaces for young people. 

How Educators Can Use Pink Shirt Day Resources in Their Schools 

Bring the kaupapainto your classroom 

The Mental Health Foundation offers ready‑to‑use lesson plans that help students explore: 

• What bullying is 

• How to recognise harmful behaviour 

• How to respond as an upstander 

• Why diversity and inclusion matter 

These lessons are flexible and can be woven into health, wellbeing, literacy, or homeroom sessions. 

Find resources here 

Lead meaningful kōrero with your learners

Use the discussion guides to spark conversations about: 

• Kindness and empathy 

• The impact of our words 

• How to support peers 

• How to challenge stereotypes 

These kōrero moments help students feel heard and help educators build trust and connection. 

Create visual reminders of your school’s values

Posters, printables, and student‑made artwork can transform your learning spaces. Try: 

• A “Kindness Pledge” wall 

• Student‑designed pink shirts 

• A collaborative mural celebrating diversity 

• Daily kindness challenges 

Visuals help reinforce the message long after the day has passed. 

Support your school’s wider Pink Shirt Day initiatives

Educators play a key role in bringing whole‑school events to life. You can help by: 

• Encouraging student leadership 

• Facilitating assemblies or presentations 

• Coordinating classroom displays 

• Supporting wellbeing teams with planning 

Your involvement helps create a united, school‑wide message of kindness and inclusion. 

Access resources designed specifically for kaiako

Pink Shirt Day provides tools to help educators feel confident and supported, including: 

• Guidance on responding to bullying 

• Strategies for supporting rainbow students 

• Tips for modelling upstander behaviour 

• Professional learning resources 

When educators feel equipped, students feel safe. 

Find school resources here 

Leading a Culture of Kindness Every Day 

Pink Shirt Day is a moment, but the impact comes from what happens next. By using these resources and modelling inclusive practice, educators help create school environments where every learner feels safe to be themselves. 

At ANZUK, we’re proud to stand alongside educators who champion kindness, connection, and belonging—today and every day.