Bullying is an issue in the greater community that affects many young people. No school is immune to bullying, as it is inherently a relational issue between students. At Calamvale Community College, we are firmly committed to providing a positive learning environment for all students. We understand that bullying occurs in all schools, and have in place a number of processes to address incidents of bullying when they occur.

To start, however, it is very important to define bullying so it can be addressed appropriately. A shared understanding of bullying is the starting point for effectively prevention and restorative practice. The College adopts the Australian Schools standard definition:

“Bullying is an ongoing misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical and/or social behaviour that causes physical and/or psychological harm. It can involve an individual or a group misusing their power over one or more persons. Bullying can happen in person or online, and it can be obvious (overt) or hidden (covert).

Bullying of any form or for any reason can have long-term effects on those involved, including bystanders.

Single incidents and conflict or fights between equals, whether in person or online, are not defined as bullying.”

This definition makes a clear distinction between a single incident or conflict, and on-going bullying. This element causes the most confusion – a student who experiences a single incident of mean or inappropriate behaviour is not being bullied. As much as these single incidents are not acceptable, they are not bullying and cannot be treated as bullying. These incidents may be just as serious, but they require different responses. Bullying is a complex relational problem between students and as such, it requires a response by the College that is tailored to the specifics of the interaction.

If you require more information on bullying, the College recommends the “Bullying. No Way.” website: https://bullyingnoway.gov.au/

Additionally, an outline of our response to bullying is contained within the College’s Responsible Behaviour Plan for students on our website.