By BRIDGET COOK
CHILDREN at River Gum Primary School joined forces this month to take a stand against bullying in schools.
On Friday 7 June, the Hampton Park school participated in National Buddy Day – an initiative developed by NAB and The Alannah and Madeline Foundation to help reduce bullying in primary schools.
School children were challenged to literally joined forces with a buddy by binding their limbs together with a ribbon, Velcro band or Scrunchie.
Students and staff also wore a splash of purple on the day and took part in buddy class activated throughout the day including three-legged races.
All money raised will go towards introducing The Alannah and Madeline Foundation’s Better Buddies Framework into more primary schools across the country.
River Gum Primary School teacher Danielle Hayek said all the activities they did throughout the day required teamwork, communication and support which linked in with the theme of the day.
“The kids really got into the theme of the day and some great enriched conversations took place,” she said.
“They really absorbed the concept of the day and understood the possible future effects of bullying as well as the characters that make a great friend.”
NAB employees have also been encouraged to band together with a colleague in support of National Buddy Day.
“Bullying in schools is a serious and widespread issue and one we feel strongly about addressing,” said NAB consumer marketing general manager Kevin Ramsdale.
“We are committed to working with The Alannah and Madeline Foundation to ensure children feel happy and safe in their school environment.”
