Year 8 Backflips Against Bullying

Bullying is a significant issue in Australian high schools, with around one in four students in Years 4 to 9 experiencing it frequently. Year 8 students are the most affected, with types of bullying including verbal (71%), social (61%), cyberbullying (37%), and physical (22%).

Programs like "Backflips Against Bullying" play a vital role by engaging students with acrobatics and social messages, making anti-bullying strategies memorable. These programs emphasize emotional regulation, assertiveness, and help-seeking behaviours, supporting a positive school environment and complementing existing wellbeing initiatives.

On Tuesday, 25th July, the Year 8 cohort of Saint Ignatius College was treated to an exhilarating performance titled 'Backflips Against Bullying' during periods 3 and 4. This event brought a fresh and engaging approach to our school's educational performances.

Key Themes of this Presentation

• Bullying and Cyberbullying - Addressing the harmful effects of bullying, both online and offline.

• Peer Pressure and Harassment - Educating students on recognizing and resisting peer pressure and various forms of harassment.

• Emotional Regulation and Assertiveness - Demonstrating how to manage emotions and assert oneself in difficult situations.

• Conflict Resolution and Resilience - Providing tools for resolving conflicts and building personal resilience.

• Support Networks and Help-Seeking - Encouraging students to seek help and support friends facing similar challenges.

Presenters also shared their own lived experiences, highlighting impacts from both the receiving and giving end of bullying.

We hope students leave this presentation with a developed understanding and an eye for spotting bullying, empowering them to help prevent it within our school community.

Presented by the Student Wellbeing Team – Olivia, Sarah, Michael Leanne and Sue.