From the Deputy Principal

Empowering Upstanders: Supporting a safe and inclusive school community

It was delightful to conclude Term 1 with an Upstander morning tea to honour several students who demonstrated outstanding acts of kindness and decency. Their good deeds varied from assisting members of the public on public transport, to intervening in negative interactions between peers at school, and voluntarily helping younger students in the Library with their school work.

Throughout Term 1, and again this week, I addressed the student body on a simple yet powerful concept: being an upstander instead of a bystander. I encouraged our students to reflect on where they position themselves.

Do they see themselves as bystanders - those who stay on the sidelines when they witness something wrong happening? Unfortunately, this inaction often perpetuates the problem, allowing harmful behaviour to persist unchallenged. Bystanders find it easier to do nothing, to ignore what's going on and continue with their day rather than speak up for what's right. 

Conversely, being an upstander means taking action. This doesn't necessarily entail grand gestures or heroic acts. It's the small, everyday choices we make that create a difference. It's about speaking up when we witness someone being teased, bullied or mistreated. It's about extending a helping hand to someone in need. It's about standing up against injustice in all its forms, whether it's racism, sexism, homophobia, or any other form of discrimination and anti-social behaviour.

Being an upstander might not always be easy or comfortable, but it's the right thing to do. It's about making our school and our community a better place for everyone. When we choose to be upstanders, we become agents of change. We become the voice for those who are silenced, the shield for those who are vulnerable, and the hope for those who feel helpless. We create a ripple effect of positivity and kindness that can transform not only our immediate surroundings but also the world at large.

So let's all choose to be upstanders. Let's look out for each other and stand up for what's right, even when it's hard. Together, we can make a difference.

I eagerly anticipate hosting an Upstander morning tea each term and witnessing growing attendance.

Ms Elizabeth Watson - Deputy Principal