By BRIDGET COOK
STUDENTS and teachers at Hampton Park Secondary College made their stance against bullying loud and clear on Friday.
To mark the annual National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence, school members verbally and in writing made a pledge to not bully or be a bystander to bullying.
The school set up a stall in the courtyard where students were invited to make the pledge out loud then sign a banner, which will hang proudly in the school.
Hampton Park Secondary College’s adolescence health nurse Gina Harrex said organisers had a great response to the pledge from staff and students.
“Many students were seen to actively encourage their peers to make the pledge and sign the banner,” she said.
“Bullying, unfortunately, is endemic in schools and workplaces.
“As staff and teachers we can put in place policies but we need to empower the students to realise that bullying stops with them and bystanders have the power to reduce the bullying by standing up for others and not condoning bullying by their silence.”
The school also promoted a National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence around the school with posters, messages on notice boards, video screens and links to the website in the school newsletter for parents to access.
Students also received wristbands and small wallet cards with tips on what to do if they are bullied or are a bystander.
