SJN Newsletter

WELLBEING & LEARNING DIVERSITY

Bullying NO WAY 2024

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This year St Joseph's participated in the Bullying No Way: National Week of Action, which took place last week,12 to 16 August 2024.

Bullying No Way Week was a commitment made by thousands of schools and supporters across the country. It provided an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to bullying prevention. 

The theme for this year's campaign was Everyone belongs. This theme highlights the importance of creating a sense of belonging and inclusion for students. We recognise bullying often thrives in environments where individuals feel marginalised or excluded, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that every student feels valued and respected.

“Positive school climates that value diversity and inclusion can foster a sense of belonging and provide a protective factor against negative peer relationships and reduce bullying.” (Australian Education Research Organisation 2023).

For more information about Bullying No Way Week and bullying prevention, visit the Bullying No Way website.

 

During the week we engaged students in meaningful discussions and activities aimed at promoting empathy, understanding, and respect for diversity. Students also made a pledge about what they could do to prevent bullying and created their wrinkled hearts. The wrinkled hearts activity provided students with a powerful visual that shows the effects that hurtful words and behaviours have on someone.

 

By working collaboratively within our community, we can collectively help reduce bullying.

Parents and carers play an important role in helping your child understand bullying, and know how to respond to it.

If your child tells you about things at school, or you observe something in public that involves conflict or bullying, take the opportunity to talk about what bullying is. You can learn more about what defines bullying at bullyingnoway.gov.au.

 

Questions you could ask:

  • What do you think bullying is?
  • Have you seen it? How did you feel?
  • Have you ever felt scared at school because of bullying?
  • As well as me, who are the other adults you would talk to when it comes to things like bullying?
  • Have you or your friends left other kids out on purpose? Do you think that was bullying? Why or why not?
  • Have you ever tried to help someone who is being bullied? What happened? What would you do if it happens again?

Remind your child that bullying is never okay and discuss how they can respond safely if they experience or witness it.

Encourage them to seek help from a trusted adult and keep seeking support if needed.

By promoting open communication, we empower children to stand up against bullying and create a safer environment where everyone can feel that they belong.

 

For more information, visit bullyingnoway.gov.au.