Bullying No Way
Bullying No Way Week 2026
This week, Wantirna College came together to say NO to bullying. Guided by this year's national theme, "Small Acts, Big Impact," students across every year level took part in workshops, lunchtime activities and creative projects designed to build empathy, spark conversation and remind our community that even the smallest gesture of kindness can make a real difference.
From badge and shirt making, appreciation trees overflowing with heartfelt messages and dedicated Year 7 and Year 8 workshops on recognising and responding to bullying, the week showed just how seriously our students take standing up for one another. Here's a look at how our community got involved.
To close out Bullying No Way Week, students took part in a march from Mooroop to the General Office, with more students joining the march along the route. What started as a small group grew into a wall of voices rallying against bullying. This was a fitting way to mark Day Five's theme of "Together, we can stop bullying," and a great reminder that even small acts, when people join in, add up to something powerful.
Mel Zulfic
Year 11 Year Level Leader
A Word from our SRC President
Seeing our school community get behind Bullying No-Way Week this week has been fantastic and it is safe to say that Wantirna College stands firmly against bullying. It is one thing to talk about standing up for others but watching everyone actively participate in our lunchtime events has been exceptional.
On Tuesday lunchtime we had shirt and badge making in the senior centre and brought that same energy to Mason house on Thursday. Students had the choice to grab a pre-made design or draw up their own custom badges and shirts connected to the theme of the week. Watching everyone get creative, wear their designs with pride and show support for the cause proved just how much our school cares.
We also set up appreciation trees in both the Senior Centre and Mason House where students were able to write kind messages on paper leaves to stick on the tree. Seeing those trees completely fill up with heartfelt positive messages has been deeply meaningful. It serves as a powerful reminder of how small acts of kindness can completely light up our school environment. Thank you to everyone who got involved made a badge or shirt, and hung up a message. Let us keep looking out for each other long after this week wraps up as Wantirna College says NO to Bullying.
Ritkriti Melam, Year 12
SRC President
Year 7 Bullying Awareness Workshop
On Monday, our Year 7 students participated in a workshop designed to build their understanding of bullying and empower them to contribute to a safe, respectful and inclusive school community.
Students explored what bullying is, the different forms it can take, and the impact it can have on others. They learnt to distinguish between bullying, conflict and everyday friendship issues, while exploring physical, verbal, social and cyberbullying. A key focus of the workshop was developing students’ skills as upstanders. Students learnt practical strategies for safely speaking up, supporting someone who is experiencing bullying, reporting concerns and seeking help from trusted adults.
Year 8 Students Take Action Against Bullying through Project Rockit! On Thursday, Project Rockit! visited the College and took our Year 8 students through an engaging, youth-led workshop, focused on empowering students to challenge bullying and contribute to a more positive and inclusive school culture.
Students explored the impact of bullying both online and in person, developed empathy for those affected, and considered the barriers, risks and rewards of speaking up. A key focus of the workshop was shifting students from bystanders to active upstanders, highlighting how even small actions can make a meaningful difference.
Both workshops encouraged students to recognise that everyone has a role to play in creating a positive year-level culture. By showing empathy, supporting others and making respectful choices, students can help build a school community where everyone feels safe, included and valued.
Rebecca Howell
Learning Specialist
Wellbeing & Engagement 7-8