More Queensland students have taken part in the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence today, than in any other state or territory.
Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek joined the students at Rochedale State School in Brisbane’s south – one of 585 schools, with 311,357 students involved from around the state.
“By standing together on this important day, students everywhere are sending a clear message to all their peers that this type of behaviour is just not on and it won’t be tolerated,” Mr Langbroek said.
“Bullying can be an issue in almost any school, anywhere and its effects inside and outside of school can be devastating.
“It can damage a child’s self-esteem and dent their confidence to learn, which can ultimately lead to a disinterest in attending school and effect poorly on their grades.”
Mr Langbroek said he had seen firsthand the damaging effects schoolyard tormenters had had on members of his family and the National Day of Action was an opportunity for all students to bravely tell bullies their behaviour is not OK.
“I give every student who participated today a real pat on the back for being courageous enough to stand up to cowards who cruelly bully others,” he said.
Mr Langbroek said that nationally 954,388 students from 2,149 State, Catholic and Independent schools joined in today – a 45% increase in participating schools compared to last year’s event.
“Schools right across the country are marking the day with special assemblies, newsletters, quizzes, poster competitions, art shows, community breakfasts and morning teas, as well as getting students involved in making music, games and video clips promoting the anti-bullying message,” he said.
“It is a great avenue for students to talk frankly in a secure environment about their fears and experiences with schoolyard bullying – all with the close support and nurturing of teachers and friends.”
Excellent advice and resources are available at the Bullying. No Way! website, www.bullyingnoway.gov.au which is co-ordinated by the Queensland Department of Education, Training & Employment on behalf of all Australian education jurisdictions.
Audio available at: https://soundcloud.com/johnpaullangbroek