Open conversations, education and support systems form the foundation of building a culture of non-violence at Nova Pioneer Ruimsig.

According to Head of School Carla Hercules, creating an environment where learners feel safe enough to speak about violence requires more than a once-off awareness campaign.

The school called on learners, parents, staff and members of the wider community to wear black on September 30 to stand against gender-based violence (GBV) and violence in all its forms.

The initiative was intended to demonstrate solidarity with survivors, remember those affected by violence and reinforce the importance of rejecting abuse in society.

Hercules said Nova Pioneer participated because GBV affects the broader South African community, including the people who form part of the school environment.

“By participating, we show support for survivors and teach our students the importance of standing up for justice and human dignity,” she said.

However, the school’s approach to promoting safety extends beyond the symbolic act of wearing black.

Starting conversations early

Hercules said schools have an important role in shaping how young people understand relationships, boundaries and their responsibilities towards others.

“It is crucial to discuss topics like healthy boundaries and consent early on, so they develop the skills to create non-violent relationships,” she said.

At Nova Pioneer, these conversations are adapted to learners’ developmental stages. Primary school learners are taught about emotional awareness, personal space and kindness. At high school level, discussions include consent, digital safety and gender equality.

According to Hercules, these topics are incorporated into the school’s curriculum and events to help learners develop an understanding of respect and non-violence. The school also promotes its core values, peer mentorship and ongoing workshops as part of its efforts to maintain a safe environment.

Supporting learners who experience violence

Recognising signs of abuse and ensuring learners know where to seek help are also central to the school’s approach. Hercules said learners experiencing violence can access support from on-site counsellors, teachers, coaches and the Dean of Students.

Staff receive training to identify possible signs of abuse and respond sensitively. The school follows established procedures to ensure affected learners receive the help they need.

Nova Pioneer also has safe and anonymous reporting methods for concerns, alongside a zero-tolerance approach to bullying. Hercules said these measures form part of the ongoing work required to build a school culture in which learners are treated with respect and feel supported.

She added that parents have an equally important role to play in reinforcing these lessons outside the classroom.

“When they model respect and open dialogue about boundaries at home, it reinforces our teachings at school,” she said. A strong partnership between home and school is vital to promoting non-violence, she added.

Message to learners afraid to speak out

For learners who may be experiencing violence but are afraid to disclose what is happening, Hercules emphasised the importance of knowing that support is available.

“You are not alone, and you don’t have to deal with this by yourself.”

She encouraged learners to speak to a trusted teacher or counsellor when they feel ready, assuring them that there are adults at the school who care and are willing to listen. The school said its participation in the wear-black initiative reflects its rejection of violence and its commitment to respect and human dignity.

Through age-appropriate education, support systems and continued engagement with families, Nova Pioneer aims to reinforce the message that preventing violence is a shared responsibility.