Student Wellbeing

Be Bold. Be Kind. Be Brave.

Standing Strong Against Bullying

Bullying is a big problem that can happen anywhere; at school, online, at work. Bullying is everyone’s responsibility. It takes students, parents and teachers to address bullying within and beyond the school gates. This year, during Bullying. No Way! Week, the theme is to Be Bold. Be Kind. Be Brave. These three words are more than just a motto, they’re a way to make a real difference to how you and your friends treat each other.

Bullying is not always obvious, but there are several signs you can watch for. You might notice someone being repeatedly left out of activities, called hurtful names, or targeted with mean jokes. Bullying can also be physical, like pushing, tripping, or damaging belongings and sometimes it can happen online through nasty messages or fake accounts. It is also important to recognise the signs of bullying. This can be subtle signs like a classmate suddenly becoming quiet, avoiding friends or looking upset. It is essential that we pay attention to patterns, spot changes in our friend’s moods or behaviour.

What Does it Mean to Be Bold

Being bold doesn’t mean you have to put yourself at risk, it means choosing to do what is right and having the courage to stand up against bullying. It might sound like a scary thing, but speaking out and providing support when you see someone being mistreated can help stop bullying before it gets worse. Speaking out does not always mean direct confrontation, you don’t have to do it alone, tell a trusted adult like a teacher or a school counsellor.

Why Being Kind Matters

Kindness has great power. Simple actions like complimenting someone, asking a classmate to join a group, or just listening when someone wants to talk can create a safer and happier environment for everyone. When you choose kindness, you help create the opportunities to make great friendships and show that bullying is not okay.

The Strength to be Brave

Being brave isn’t always easy, and it can look different for everyone. It’s not always about being confrontational and it doesn’t always have to be loud. It can often be about the choices we make such as refusing to laugh at a cruel joke even when everyone else does. Bravery can mean listening to that voice inside that says, “Something’s going on here, and it’s not right.” Whether you’re asking for help or stepping up for someone else, real bravery turns good vibes into real change.

How can we reflect these values?

Be Bold. Be Kind. Be Brave. Now let’s put these words into action! Every day at school, we get chances to live out these values. In the classroom, on the oval, in group chats- our choices shape the kind of community we build.

Be Bold

Speak up if you see someone being treated unfairly or call out a joke that crosses the line. Even a simple “That’s not cool” can shift the moment.
Got ideas to make school safer? Share them. Start a peer support crew or pitch something new.
Don’t let fear of being judged stop you from doing what’s right.

Be Kind

Check in with someone who seems upset. Even a quick “You good?” can mean a lot.
Include others in group chats, games or conversations- especially those who are often left out.
Send a kind message to someone having a tough day.

Be Brave

If you’re being bullied, tell a trusted adult such as your parent or guardian, teacher or counsellor.
See someone being bullied? Report it. Protecting someone is not the same as dobbing.
Stand by someone who’s being targeted even if it means just walking with them or sitting beside them.

Remember: Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected. Bullying can hurt, but together, with boldness, kindness, and bravery, you can help create a school and online world where everyone belongs.