THE trauma for those caught feeling fearful and socially outcast as a result of bullying in school will be highlighted with the Bullying No Way Week, running from August 12 to 16.

Whether it be bullying between students – usually called student bullying – or even bullying of or from teachers, the rebranding of The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence has the goal of connecting schools and communities to find workable solutions to prevent the antisocial behaviour and its negative outcomes.

The theme for 2024 is ‘Everyone Belongs’.

All have a role in preventing bullying and the community has been encouraged to speak up and create a safe place where everyone feels supported and respected, and voices are heard and valued.

Bullying No Way focuses on bullying between students, usually called student bullying or school bullying, with their website including significant resources for schools and parents to support those confronted with it.

There are fact sheets, classroom resources and professional resources, and steps to examine programs and approaches in schools.

A less common behaviour, but still a necessary component of the subject is teacher bullying, with teachers who feel threatened advised to contact their supervisor, health and safety representative, human resources department or union.

In the reverse situation, when a child claims to be bullied by a teacher, it can be difficult to assess, with open discussions with children necessary to consider the range of possible alternative reasons for the claim, but the school should be open to discussions with the assistant principal, year level co-coordinator or student wellbeing coordinator.

Failing that, escalating the complaint to the principal and potentially the Department of Education are options.

The Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) can also receive complaints, as they are “responsible for ensuring only suitable persons are registered to teach in a Victorian school or early childhood service”.

Obstacles to reporting bullying

RESEARCH has found that students often do not report bullying because they fear not being believed or not having their concerns appropriately and thoughtfully addressed by relevant adults.

Different ideas about what bullying is and is not may also contribute to students not reporting bullying.

Fear of making things worse has been another reason students give for being reluctant to report.

Responses by staff and others should be supportive, measured and respectful to reassure students that their reports will be taken seriously and handled appropriately.

Parents or other carers are often the first person that a child tells about bullying at school.

Sensitive and respectful responses by parents can make a difference.

The Bullying No Way Week website can be found at bullyingnoway.gov.au and resources about teachers bullying at: www.vic.gov.au/adult-bullying

More information about lodging complaints about schools who are believed to be failing in their response to bullying can be found at www.vic.gov.au/school-complaints and VIT via: bit.ly/3LZhLNk