Cessnock High School joined more than 50 schools across NSW that hosted special assemblies on Friday as part of the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.
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Students, parents, teachers, caregivers, businesses and general members of the community were invited to a special assembly to officially launch the school’s new anti-bullying policy – Stop, Walk, Talk.
Students were encouraged to make a commitment to bully-proof the school and the local community, by leaving a print of their hand on a special wall mural called the ‘wall of commitment’.
Hundreds of green balloons were also released by students and teachers, in a symbolic gesture signifying the end of bullying at the school.
Cessnock High School student support officer Stacy Jacobs said the day was a very important step in taking a stand against bullying.
“Bullying in any form is not tolerable and will not be tolerated at Cessnock High School or anywhere in the local community,” she said.
“Stop, Walk Talk is the concept that is used as a part of our Positive Behaviour for Learning Program.
“It encourages the students to take some ownership over the situation but also seek assistance from an adult.
“The basic concept is that if I felt that I was being bullied I would tell the person to stop, I would walk away and I would go and talk to a teacher, support staff member or any adult.
“What happens then is that a report goes to the head teacher of welfare and it is investigated.
“There can be a large number of actions that can be taken from, (including) one on one support, mediation, support from the counsellor, resilience training and support and also disciplinary procedures may follow.”
An art show of the 47 entries for the school’s Stop, Walk, Talk poster competition were also on display in the school grounds, with a handful of the winning posters made into bags, key chains and pens to help remind students how to deal with bullying situations.
The first National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence was held in 2011 and is a recognised initiative of all Australian education ministers.
This year more than 1400 schools across Australia registered to participate in anti-bullying activities.
