Responding to bullying
School processes for managing bullying, harassment, discrimination and violence are key to providing a safe and supportive school environment.
Responding to incidents in a constructive, supportive and timely manner is critical.
It is vital that schools include
restoring relationships and teaching about appropriate ways to relate to others in their responses.
Parents or other carers are often the first person that a child tells about bullying at school. Sensitive and respectful responses by parents can make a difference.
Parents working together with the school is the best way to stop the bullying from happening again.
Ensuring that students
know how to report bullying can reduce the chance of bullying going unreported or students being reluctant to tell someone. Encouraging students to report bullying helps schools to gain a more accurate picture of bullying in their community and provide help where it is needed.
The various education authorities in Australia provide overarching policies with specific guidelines and requirements for schools to respond to bullying. In some cases, specific legislation may apply. Visit your
jurisdiction's website for more information.