Bullying remains serious problem in schools – AfriForum
“It is important for children to first try and sort out the issue themselves because the world is full of bullies.”
AfriForum has encouraged teachers and parents to help pupils in the fight against bullying.
Last Monday, AfriForum visited Laerskool Wierdapark in Centurion to raise the awareness of bullying in schools as part of its anti-bullying initiative.
The project includes information-sharing sessions with learners, teachers and parents.
“It is important to AfriForum to work closely with pupils and their parents as well as teachers to put a stop to bullying in schools,” said AfriForum junior youth leadership manager Leandie Bräsler.
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Bräsler said each learner attendee was taught to be a leader when someone in their school was being bullied.
“It is clear that bullying really is a serious problem at schools across the country,” she said.
“Launched in 2017, the initiative saw us visit 27 schools in 2018 alone, and for 2019, we have already visited over 30 schools.”
Bräsler said AfriForum would continue visiting the schools to fight the scourge of bullying among pupils.
For parents concerned about their kids being bullied, Bräsler suggested they teach them certain tricks to stand up to bullies.
“It is important for children to first try and sort out the issue themselves because the world is full of bullies,” she said.
“The child can approach his or her teacher or a counsellor at school. “If the bullying is very serious, the parents can get the school governing body involved.”
Once all steps have failed Bräsler suggests approaching the department of education and, as a final resort, the police.
“Parents should remain calm and thank their children for sharing the news with them.
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“It is important to stay calm and to listen to your child. She wants to know that you believe in her and will support her through this.
“It is a good idea to make an appointment with the child’s teacher. Schools have a duty to your child to ensure his or her safety.”
Here is some advice for teachers:
– Thank the learner for having the courage to speak to you.
– Ask the learner to explain exactly what happened, when and where it happened and if the bully can be identified.
– Find out from the learner what the next step is he or she wants you to take. They might not want you to immediately confront the bully.
– Inform the parents of the child so they can keep an eye on the pupil at home.
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