Queensland independent school students will unite with students around the state and nation tomorrow (Friday 19 March) to send a powerful message that bullying and violence have no place on the playground or in the community.

About 153 Queensland independent schools have registered for the 11^th annual National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence, with many others also expected to mark the day with special activities.

These schools are among more than 1686 Queensland state and non-state schools supporting the day of action.

Independent Schools Queensland Executive Director David Robertson said research examining the impact of school participation in the national campaign had shown positive outcomes for school communities.

“According to campaign survey findings 73% of schools that have been participating in the day of action for more than five years report positive changes for students and 66% report positive changes for staff and their school climate,” he said.

Mr Robertson said Queensland independent school principals and teachers worked in partnership with parents and their communities to foster student tolerance, acceptance and belonging.

“All children should feel safe in the playground, classroom, online and in the broader community. Bullying in any form in any environment is unacceptable and should be called out,” he said.

The eSafety Commissioner is running a virtual classroom for schools and webinars for parents to promote educated and informed conversations about cyberbullying and respectful online behaviours.

Any students experiencing bullying should report their concerns to a family member, their school or contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

A range of resources, research and links to support services for students and parents can be found at the Bullying No Way website.

The Queensland Independent Schools Parents Network website contains a range of wellbeing resources including a webinar on bullying and student relationships by the Head of Health Promotion and Education Research at the Telethon Kids Institute, Professor Donna Cross.

Media Contact

Shari Armistead
07 3228 1515 | sarmistead@isq.qld.edu.au