St Patrick’s is committed to the provision of a safe and supportive environment free from harassment and intimidation and promotes personal growth and positive self-esteem for all, both in and out of the classroom.   

Definition

The National Safe Schools Framework (2011) defines bullying as repeated verbal, physical, social or psychological behaviour that is harmful and involves the misuse of power by an individual or group towards one or more persons. 

Cyberbullying

“…any form of bullying that utilises technology such as instant messaging, online chat rooms, online bulletin boards and email.  In many ways this is a more insidious form of bullying since it may reach into a victim’s home.” In other words, technology now allows the bully to inflict psychological harm on his or her victim anywhere and anytime without respite. (Schools and the Law – Des Butler and Ben Matthews, p. 46). 

At St Patrick’s, we endeavour to establish a positive learning environment based on the Gospel Values of care, respect and responsibility.  

The school will provide a positive culture for students, staff, parents and visitors where bullying is not accepted. All will have the right of respect from others, the right to learn or to teach and a right to feel safe and secure in their school environment.  

At St Patrick’s, we believe in the dignity of all human persons. All are equal in the eyes of God and so, as Christians, we must respect each person, treating them as we would want to be treated.  

We believe in a strategic and consistent approach to anti-bullying that is owned by the school community through a collaborative approach. 

We Aim: 

• To reinforce within the school community the definition of bullying and the fact that it is unacceptable
• To ensure that everyone within the school community is alert to signs and evidence of bullying and to have a responsibility to report it to staff whether as observer or victim
• To ensure that all reported incidents of bullying are followed up appropriately and that support/consequence is given to both victims and perpetrators 
• To seek parental and peer-group support and co-operation at all times
• To educate staff, students and parents in anti-bullying

Programs that Assist

At St Patrick’s we provide programs that promote resilience, life and social skills, assertiveness, conflict resolution and problem-solving e.g. You Can Do It! and Positive Behaviour Scheme, to assist in educating our safe and happy students.