Monday, January 2025
“The bullying I went through was mostly verbal and physical,” Carter recalls. “It included mean words, and they did some really hurtful things to me physically as well.”
Carter reported the incidents to his teachers and parents, who quickly involved the principal and other staff to address the situation.
Carter’s confidence has since grown, thanks in part, to the Stand Up for Respect Program at Eagleby State School.
Carter’s mum, Amy, explains how the program empowered him to have open conversations with his parents, grandparents, and friends, helping Carter to better understand how bullying affects emotions. “
We’ve definitely seen a change in him at school,” Amy says. “His grades have improved because he’s more focused. He’s found the confidence to deal with his problems, and now he’s happier and can focus on the things that matter most to him.”
Deputy Principal Elly Patterson says the program positively benefited the entire Year 5 cohort.
“Within just a few weeks, we saw a decrease in discriminatory language and a huge decrease in physical violence among the students. There’s also been an increase in upstander behaviour,” she says.
Ms Patterson said she would strongly recommend the Stand Up for Respect program to schools across Australia.
“It has enlightened our staff, our families, our community, and it has brought a real sense of positive change.”
