Work has begun on a statewide, sector-blind, standardised bullying policy for all schools in NSW.
The NSW Schools Advisory Council, which includes representatives from more than 3000 government, Catholic and independent schools, met in the first week of December to begin developing the policy, following community pressure to address bullying of students in schools.
The Advisory Council’s work is part of a statewide approach to addressing bullying in NSW schools, as the Minns Labor Government also supports advocate calls for a national approach to the issue.
Several student suicides in recent years that have been connected with bullying at school have galvanised politicians and the community to act.
Members of the Advisory Council include: Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car; Chief Executive of the Association of Independent Schools NSW Margery Evans; CEO of Catholic Schools NSW Dallas McInerney; and the Secretary of the NSW Department of Education Murat Dizdar.
Widespread problem
Schools are already required to have a bullying policy, but this new statewide approach will aim to address common factors in certain types of behaviour and outline responses expected of all schools.
“In the past, bullying may have been seen as a localised problem, but the truth is that this is a scourge that is affecting children across every type of school,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said in a statement to the media on 18 November.
“While we support a nationally consistent approach, we know that may take some time, so we are not waiting, and we are exploring what we can do here in NSW immediately,” he said.
“We have heard some devastating stories of bullying in NSW schools, and we genuinely understand the responsibility we have as a government to do everything that we can to make a difference in this space.”
Seeking solutions
The IEU supports a safe environment for the entire school community, including teachers, support staff and students.
“Teachers need support so they can in turn support their students, so greater staffing levels is a good starting point,” said IEUA NSW/ACT Branch Secretary Carol Matthews.
“School staff also need greater access to allied health services, such as psychologists, to refer their students to should they see signs of difficulty.
“Professional respect for teachers is also essential to ensure school staff are supported in their efforts to address student behavioural issues.”
In the media statement, NSW Education Minister Prue Car said, “We all have a crucial role to play in supporting safe and inclusive environments and helping to strengthen community harmony.
“All of the school sectors take reports of bullying seriously and are committed to ensuring students, parents, carers and staff can thrive in every school community,” she said.