Bullying & Harassment
Bullying and Harassment is:
- Not being accepted because you are new or different.
- Physical bullying, such as hitting, pushing, punching and being physically threatening.
- Negative or aggressive body language and actions.
What it looks like:
- evil looks
- ugly expressions
- gangs
- pushing
- teasing
- ignoring
- hitting
- fighting
- offensive notes, drawings, 'chatting' in Internet Chat Rooms or SMS messages. There are many useful websites with more information on bullying and cyber-bullying.
What it sounds like:
- swearing
- yelling
- abusive language
- teasing
- offensive phone calls
- racist
- fighting
- gossip
- mean
What it feels like:
- scared
- helpless
- small
- hurt
- embarrassed
- ashamed
- worthless
- worried
- angry
- lonely
Who is a bully?
A bully is someone who is empowered by offensive, demeaning, humiliating or intimidating verbal and/or physical behaviour towards others.
Who is a victim?
A victim is someone who is subjected to repeated, threatening words, behaviour and situations that leave them feeling fearful, alone, unworthy and powerless.
What should you do about it?
Steps to follow:
Step 1
The student can ignore the behaviour. By showing undesirable behaviour is not upsetting, the harasser is not rewarded and the harassment may stop.
If it does not stop:
Step 2
The student can confront the person who is harassing and tell her or him that the actions are unwanted. It may stop then.
If harassment continues:
Step 3
The student can talk it over openly with trusted adults who can help with the decision about what to do.
If harassment continues:
Step 4
The student can report the matter directly to the care group teacher or subject teacher and make a plan with her/him to deal with the problem.
If the harassment still does not stop:
Step 5
The student can go with the care group teacher and/or parents to the appropriate co-ordinator and allow these people to take the action they see necessary.
Bullying and Harassment WILL NOT BE TOLERATED at Torrens Valley Christian School!