Mount Austin Public School principal Anna Middleton said family violence is an issue affecting many students, who are never too young to be taught respect.

Ms Middleton said White Ribbon Day, a campaign to prevent violence against women, is the perfect time to enhance the school’s teachings about respect.

“The basic thing behind it, and something we try and teach the kids, is respect,” she said.

Staff were brainstorming ideas for White Ribbon Day and one member mentioned the possibility of planting a garden for the occasion.

The garden at the front of the school will feature dark blue petunias and white impatiens and will be altered as the seasons change.

It will be unveiled today during a White Ribbon Day ceremony and flags from the nations of the children who attend the school will be raised.

Students will also enjoy a multicultural lunch cooked and prepared by staff.