Schools say no to bullying and violence
20 Mar 2015
Media release Schools across Australia will ‘take a stand together’ today as part of the 2015 National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.
Now in its fifth year, the day is of national importance to schools all around Australia, with over 1900 schools taking part this year in a united effort to stamp out bullying and violence.
Minister for Education and Training, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, said he is pleased that students and school communities across Australia are continuing to 'take a stand' against bullying and violence.
“Worryingly, one in every four school students in Australia is affected by bullying – a totally unacceptable situation,” Mr Pyne said.
“We need to send a clear and powerful message that bullying and violence, in or outside the classroom, is not okay at any time.”
“All governments across Australia are working together to support schools in creating safe, supportive and respectful learning environments where students are encouraged to engage in all aspects of school life.
“The National Day of Action gives schools the opportunity to promote their own anti-bullying initiatives and strategies. Fantastic work is already happening in Australian schools all year round.”
New 'Stand Together' lesson plans, ‘Being reasonable and ethical online’, have been developed by the Safe and Supportive School Communities working group as part of the 2015 National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.
The resources include an activity overview, detailed lesson plans and resources needed to conduct the lessons, as well as information about opportunities for ongoing learning.
“In a 2014 research report into cyberbullying, it is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 young people experience online bullying, Mr Pyne said.”
“Given the theme for this year’s National Day of Action is ‘Being Reasonable and Ethical Online’, it is extremely important that children are also safe online.”
“This is why the Government has made a $10 million commitment to improve and enhance online safety for children by establishing a Children’s e-Safety Commissioner, and providing certified online safety programmes for schools to access.”
A range of other resources to help counter bullying and support safety and wellbeing for the whole school community are available for schools, parents and educators on the Bullying. No Way! website and on the Safe Schools Hub.
For more information visit:
www.studentsfirst.gov.au/engaging-parents-education
www.bullyingnoway.gov.au/parents/index.html