Bullying and schools
Bullying among young people is a pervasive issue that affects thousands across Australia. At Dolly's Dream, we understand the deep and lasting impact bullying can have on young lives, which is why we are committed to working hand-in-hand with schools and communities to address this challenge.
Schools, as vital hubs of learning and social development, hold a significant responsibility in tackling bullying. However, they face a range of unique challenges, as each school is an ecosystem shaped by its local community, culture, and the specific needs of its students. Complicating this is the fact that every state and territory in Australia operates under its own set of legislation, which can make implementing uniform solutions difficult.
Despite these challenges, schools have a responsibility to address bullying when it occurs. In most countries, including Australia, schools are required to provide a safe and supportive environment for all students, which includes taking steps to prevent and respond to bullying. This responsibility is often outlined in national or state education policies and guidelines, such as anti-bullying frameworks. You can read Government School State Level Policies on Bullying here.
Here are some key reasons why schools play a central role in dealing with bullying:
Duty of Care. Schools have a legal obligation to protect students' physical and emotional well-being while they're on school grounds or participating in school-related activities. If bullying occurs within this context, the school must intervene.
Safe Learning Environment. Bullying can negatively affect a child's academic performance, emotional health, and social development. Schools need to ensure that students can learn without fear of being bullied.
Policies and Procedures. Most schools have anti-bullying policies that outline what constitutes bullying, how students can report incidents, and the steps the school will take to address the issue. These policies should be clear to students, parents, and staff. Ask your school to see their anti-bullying policy.
Prevention Programs. Many schools have programs that promote positive behaviour, teach conflict resolution skills, and encourage students to show respect and be kind. Dolly’s Dream works with primary and secondary schools nationally to deliver anti-bullying workshops to help build safe, supportive environments for all students. Ask your child’s school what programs they have in place.
Addressing bullying requires a combination of emotional support, clear communication, and partnership with the school. Let your child know they’re not alone and that help is available.
- 10 Steps to Deal with School Bullying and Cyberbullying. Click here to read more.
- My child is being bullied but won’t talk to me. What should I do? Learn more here.
- Download our School Response Form here. This is a practical resource for parents and carers to use when approaching their child’s school regarding bullying issues.
- How to ask for help if you are being bullied. Download this form and fill out the details with your child in their words (they can fill it out themselves or you can assist if needed) outlining their experience. This can be shared to help address the issues they are facing.
We must keep in mind that bullying is not an isolated problem confined to the schoolyard. It can permeate every aspect of a young person’s life - particularly with social media, tech use and the online world - and that is why the solution must extend beyond school gates.
While schools are responsible for helping address bullying, families and the broader community also play an important role in supporting children and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
By working together—schools, families, and communities—we can create a world where bullying is not tolerated, and every child feels safe and supported. At Dolly's Dream, we are dedicated to driving this change, and we invite everyone to be part of the solution.
Together, we can make a difference.
