Supporting our students at school

We all want our children to feel safe, happy, and supported at school. 

We thought it would be a good time to explore this with the current media surrounding a change to Ministerial Order 1125. This update to the Ministerial Order expands the grounds for suspensions and expulsions in government schools. This will come into effect from 21 July 2025.

These changes aim to keep students and staff safe at school. They give principals the necessary authorisation and framework to act in exceptional circumstances should they need to protect their school community.  

The changes bring Victoria into line with other jurisdictions, including NSW and South Australia, and will address concerns around harmful behaviour that happens outside school hours – particularly online – but affects student and staff safety at school.

The policy itself is designed to give schools power in exceptional circumstances to enforce consequences should behaviours outside the College specifically target students or staff of their school. 

It is envisioned that this policy will not change the way in which the College operates on a large scale.

Young people’s lives are dynamic and as they grow, emotions and the usual growing up phases of teenage life are a consistent part of development. However, if the behaviour of your young person changes drastically then there may be something that is causing them stresses that may include instances of bullying.

How can you help?

Start with a Conversation

The most important first step is to talk with your child. Encourage them to be open and honest with you about how they’re feeling and what’s been happening at school. Sometimes they might find it hard to speak up, so letting them know you’re there to listen can make all the difference. Reassure them that they’re not alone and that it’s okay to ask for help.

Reach Out to the Year Level Coordinator

If your child shares something that concerns you, or if you notice signs that something may not be right, please don’t hesitate to contact their Year Level Coordinator or members of our Leadership team. Contact details for these members of staff can be found on Compass.

 These staff members are here to help—whether it’s listening, investigating, or putting support in place to make things better. The sooner we know about an issue, the sooner we can work together to resolve it.

The College continues to engage in practices in which we believe reduce instances of negative behaviour at Heathmont. This includes the Real Schools model of Restorative Practice, the School Wide Positive Behaviours Model strategy and consistent work with families and young people to ensure the College remains a safe and happy place for all students.

For more information, please see the Bully Stoppers information page https://www.vic.gov.au/bully-stoppers or further resources regarding bullying can be found here: https://www.vic.gov.au/advice-sheets-adults