Tackling bullying at school

By Jennette Lees

RESEARCH estimates one in six school students fall victim to bullying on a weekly basis.

One local boy, Stevan Vanoski is determined to tackle this issue, which can have long lasting effects on those affected. Stevan and his father have been travelling around the country meeting with professors, Members of Parliament including a representative from Minister for Education Julie Bishops office and Parents and Citizens groups in different states to discuss what can be done and the best ways in which to curb this problem. The year 7 student from Corrimal High said he became involved in the campaign to stop bullying after being the victim of bullying himself. Trained in boxing Stevan said he became the target of people looking to challenge him.

Stevan claimed his teachers did not provide adequate help when he was bullied. He got into a physical altercation with another student and was suspended from school for four days. Stevan and his father have visited South Australia, Victoria, ACT and travelled through NSW promoting the prevention of bullying in schools.

The pair is lobbying to increase the number of counsellors in schools asking for the appointment of at least one school counsellor per every 300 or so students.

Stevan said his fellow students continue to support him in his efforts.

I feel like they back me up 100%, he said. Department of Education and Training Illawarra-South East Regional Director Graeham Kennedy said bullying in schools and workplaces is a serious issue. We have introduced anti-bullying policies and have very strict guidelines for schools about disciplinary steps in place to combat unacceptable behaviour, he said.

From what I understand the case of Stevan Vanoski is a complicated one. I do know he had reported a case of bullying earlier in the year. I believe this involved a student teasing Stevan in a science class.

The matter was resolved to the satisfaction of Stevan and others involved. I understand this is the only time Stevan reported being bullied. Counselling support was offered through the school, but Stevans father declined the offer. Mr Kennedy said.