Type: Policy
Classification: Operational
Policy Number: SCS2023001
Released: 27 January 2023
Review Date: 27 January 2026
Rescinds/Replaces: TL201604-1.1

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) is committed to providing a respectful, safe and supportive learning environment for students. Bullying undermines the dignity and wellbeing of each student, and SCS considers all forms of bullying behaviour unacceptable. In line with its values, SCS fosters communities of care where every student is known, valued and supported through cura personalis, promoting their holistic growth and wellbeing.

Bullying is intentional and repeated behaviour that involves the ongoing misuse of power that can cause physical and/or psychological harm to a student. Bullying behaviour can be verbal, physical, social (e.g. excluding, alienating behaviour) and psychological (spreading rumours, sending hurtful messages or comments) and includes bullying via social media and other online platforms (cyber-bullying).

Bullying can involve discrimination, intimidation and harassment. Bullying behaviours may be individual or collective behaviours which occur on or outside school premises and during or after school hours. Some bullying may constitute criminal conduct such as assault, threatening behaviours, property damage or harassment and stalking.

The purpose of this policy is to support SCS school communities to prevent and address issues of student bullying to build respectful relationships. SCS staff will work in partnership with parents and carers who have an integral role to play in the prevention and resolution of bullying. Through a shared commitment to service and the integral formation of the whole person, this policy supports school communities to nurture safe, inclusive and respectful environments where every student can flourish and reach their full potential.

This policy applies to SCS staff, parents and carers. In this Policy SCS staff means all employees, members of religious orders engaged in schools, volunteers, trainees, interns, and labour hire employees.

Failure to comply with the responsibilities and obligations outlined in the policy may result …