St Joseph’s Primary School, Wingham, aims to enhance the development of students through an education which promotes their physical, intellectual, social, spiritual and moral development. Learning in this area has a clear spiritual purpose and dimension in that it can develop positive attitudes towards our relationships with others.

Bullying is a behaviour that is in no way tolerated in our school. “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...” (Bullying no way.gov.au)

St Joseph’s Wingham has a Behaviour Management Policy which includes positive school expectations (the Three Wise I’s) to ensure students are free from bullying and intimidation. We intend to deal with bullying promptly and effectively by involving mediation, disciplinary action, warnings, social skills programs, counselling and parental involvement. We also intend to increase awareness of bullying and use the TWISTS strategy for education.

Catholic schools have the responsibility to promote cultures of trust, cooperation and respect in the lived experience of the Catholic school setting. Bullying in a school mitigates such a culture and inhibits the development of positive relational outcomes for the common good of students, teachers and caregivers. It is the goal of our school to promote a safe environment where individuals may grow and develop. Well-articulated, understood and implemented policies and procedures facilitate such a goal and minimise the risk of inappropriate behaviours becoming accepted, tolerated or endemic.