Grades 7, 8 and 9 gathered on the school green as part of the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.

Each student was given a ‘Hollywood star’ with their name on it, before arranging themselves to form the words ‘Bullying. No Way’. 

Middle School head Julie Kemp said it was reflective of the institution’s overall philosophy on the issue.

“We wanted to make sure each student was included and had a star with their name on it,” she said.

“For us, the key to combating bullying is inclusiveness.

“We want to accept and celebrate diversity in our school.”

Data from the National Education Council indicates one in four students from grades 4 to 9 experience bullying once every few weeks or more.

The research also showed that in 87 per cent of bullying interactions, peers are present as onlookers, and play a central role in the bullying process.

Mrs Kemp said the school had worked to encourage positive interactions between its students.

“We’ve taken the step of appointing student leaders to various committees, so they may be able to assist with student participation in school ideals such as internationalism, environment, democracy, and adventure leadership,” she said.

“There are also vertical tutor groups, which include a mix of old and young students.

“If a student from a lower grade is uncomfortable about reporting bullying to a staff member, they can talk to a more senior student.”

Grade 8 student Emma Jepson is among those at the school to have taken up a temporary leadership role. 

The 13-year-old said while she had not experienced bullying in her school career, she knew what scenarios could occur.

“We sometimes have guest speakers come and talk to us, and there have also been performances about the issue,” she said.

Scotch Oakburn students joined almost two million Australian students in observing the National D​ay of Action against Bullying and Violence, which is managed by the Safe and Supportive School Communities Working Group.

Headspace has called for a holistic approach from the community towards bullying.

Speaking on the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence, Headspace national head of clinical practice, Vikki Ryall said the broad scope of bullying meant it could not be left to one group to take action.

“The best results come when the school works together with parents and students,” she said.

“The peer-based aspect has progressed to where young people are being trained to know how to step in when certain situations occur.

“It can be hard for young people to watch bullying, because usually they are scared it will happen to them.”

 More information can be found at headspace.org.au. 

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