Bullying No Way Week is  11–15 August 2025.

Bullying No Way Week is Australia's key bullying prevention initiative for schools.

The theme for 2025 is 'Be bold. Be kind. Speak up.'

It takes courage to spark change.

Bullying is everyone's responsibility. It takes a community to be brave and address bullying behaviours, within and beyond the school gate.

Students can be bold, kind and take a stand to support others being bullied. While parents and teachers are there to support children and young people learn how to behave in a positive way.

In our community and in our school, we want a place where everyone can belong, a place that celebrates everyone, and where bullying is never accepted.

This Bullying No Way Week, we're asking students, schools, families and communities to be bold and say something, be kind and support someone, and be proud to take a stand against bullying.

If your child talks to you about bullying:

1. Listen calmly and get the full story. Your calm response is important to allow your child to tell you all about the situation.  After they’ve told you their story, ask questions to get more details if you need: who, what, where, when.  Although you may feel some strong emotions about your child’s experience, try to keep calm to avoid more distress to your child.
2. Reassure your child they are not to blame. Many children blame themselves and this may make them feel even worse. You could say things like, ‘That sounds really hard to deal with. No one should have to put up with that.’ or ‘I’m so glad you told me. You should be able to feel safe at school; that’s not fair at all’.
3. Ask your child what they want to do and what they want you to do. A critical part of your response is to avoid jumping in to solve the problem.  While it is natural to want to protect your child, helping them to find their own solution is a better option.  It helps them feel they have some power in the situation.
4. Visit www.bullyingnoway.gov.au to find some strategies. The website has tips and ideas for different bullying situations. One idea is to practise strategies at home to help your child feel more confident.
5. Contact the school. Your child may be reluctant for you to do this, so discuss the idea and reassure them that the school would want to know and is able to help. Students from Years 3 - 6 are encouraged to use the Student Safety Concern Forms.  Contact the school immediately if you have a concern about your child’s safety.  
6. Check in regularly with your child.  Keep the conversation going. It can take time to resolve issues, so check in regularly with your child about their experiences and their feelings.  Your ongoing support is important. 

Strengthening Young People Against Anxiety

You are invited to attend a free Parent/Carers Information evening, facilitated by Karen Young : ’Strengthening Young People Against Anxiety’

When: Monday 11 August, 6:20-8.00pm.

Where: Purple Hub -  Our Lady Star of the Sea School 

Karen Young is a psychologist and internationally renowned expert in child and adolescent anxiety. She is the founder of Hey Sigmund, a trusted online resource that attracts millions of readers each year, offering research-driven insights on mental wellness, emotional regulation, resilience, and children’s development.

Karen is the author of several bestselling children’s books, including Hey Warrior and Hey Awesome, which teach kids to understand and manage anxiety with warmth, humour, and neuroscience-based activities—together selling over 200,000 copies globally.

Join us for a parent information evening where Karen will guide you through:

• Understanding anxiety in childhood and adolescence
  
  

• Nurturing emotional resilience and courage
  
  

• Setting firm yet loving boundaries
  
  

• Building connection and influence during big emotions

Perfect for parents and carers, who want to learn research-grounded and accessible tools to support young people.

Link to Karen’s Hey Sigmund Anxiety Resources for Kids

Read Karen’s story

Please note, this event will be an in-person event only and will not be streamed.

Please complete the Operoo sent out earlier today.

Paul Anderson

Student Wellbeing Leader