Mark Dreyfus QC MP has welcomed schools taking part in the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence this Friday as a way of sending a clear message that bullying and violence is unacceptable.
Mark Dreyfus QC MP has welcomed schools taking part in the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence this Friday as a way of sending a clear message that bullying and violence is unacceptable.
"Bullying comes in many forms, including cyberbullying, physical violence and intimidation. There is simply no place for bullying in our schools or in the wider community," said Mr Dreyfus.
with the introduction of the National Safe Schools Framework and the inclusion of safe school policies in the National Plan for School Improvement."
The National Safe Schools Framework is an example of the Federal Labor Government's commitment to making schools a safer place, along with the inclusion of safe school policies in the National Plan for School Improvement.
The National Safe Schools Framework is the first of its kind in the world and offers guiding principles that can help school communities develop positive and practical student safety and wellbeing policies.
"The Federal Labor Government is investing almost $4 million to develop online tools and resources for schools to actively adopt the National Safe Schools Framework and make sure students are safe both inside and outside the school gates."
This is the third annual National Day of Action and new curriculum materials - Stand Together 2013 - have been developed for teachers to use in the classroom to help students from early childhood through to senior schooling to explore the meaning of Take a Stand Together' and the importance of being active bystanders.
More than 377,000 students from 830 schools across Australia have registered for the National Day of Action and have committed to creating a safe and supportive school environment, free from bullying, harassment and violence.
Schools are encouraged to send a photo of their students' displays, work, and performances to Bullying. No Way! at www.bullyingnoway.gov.au to be part of the 'Stand Together 2013' photo gallery.
Also on the National Day of Action this Friday, the winners of the first Safe Schools are Smart Schools competition will be announced, with a primary and secondary school from every state and territory winning a $5000 voucher.
"The Safe Schools are Smart Schools competition recognises schools with great initiatives to address bullying, violence, harassment, discrimination or mental health issues and is also a great way to share what works with other schools," said Mr Dreyfus.
For more information on the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence visit www.bullyingnoway.gov.au.
For more information on the competition visit www.deewr.gov.au/safe-schools-are-smart-schools-competition.
