ANETA ZILVAROVA
Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek has invited Queensland schools to take part in the fourth National Day of Action against bullying and violence on Friday, 21 March 2014.
Mr Langbroek said he was determined to put an end to bullying in schools through the campaign.
“I am determined to build on the success of this vital campaign which earlier this year saw 244,753 students from 500 schools across the state take a strong stand against bullying and violence,” he said.
“It’s a chance for schools to promote their own programs and approaches to address bullying and it’s a time for students to unite to send a clear message that bullying and violence at school is not okay at any time.”
Recent state statistics revealed one in four Queensland students had experienced bullying during throughout their education.
The government found this number to be alarming and decided to better equip children with the long and short term effects associated with bullying by implementing the program in 2011.
Over 1,400 schools across Australia took part in the program this year, including Raceview State School.
Teacher Jocelyn Gray said students took an oath against bullying which was revised on a weekly basis if required.
“All of our children wear an orange shirt to school and the teachers discuss the issue and show students a power point with a discussion afterwards,” she said.
“Students all signed an agreement to not bully or not be an observer when they see bullying occurring [and] they all took an oath to stop bullying and we refer to it weekly or when necessary.”
Ms Gray said regular revisions of students behaviour would identify what was and wasn’t working within the program.
“Five years ago our school also implemented a School Wide Positive Behaviour Program which all staff members incorporate into their daily routine,” she said.
“The behaviours at our school are monitored and recorded daily to identify problem children, areas and times of day where certain behaviours are more prevalent.
“Regular monitoring by management and implementation of new behaviour strategies have significantly reduced bullying issues.”
Schools can register at via the programs website.