Whilst anti-bullying programs and policies have their place, the epidemic known as schoolyard bullying is on the rise, and the measures for counteracting it is pathetic at best. Schools must take responsibility for their culture and must ensure that the safety of their students is paramount. I can’t believe that incidents like the infamous NSW “body slam” incident, which has now become an internet sensation is allowed to take place at our schools.
THERE are only so many times you can try to turn the other cheek.
A Sydney schoolboy has become an internet sensation after video emerged of him body-slamming another student during a verbal and physical attack.
The year 10 boy – who pleaded with his tormenter to leave him alone – picked up his attacker and slammed him to the ground.
The teenager, said to have been bullied all his school life, was taunted and punched by a younger, smaller boy.
The victim took a hit to the face and then more blows as the year 7 boy goaded him to fight.
Suddenly the boy had had enough. He launched himself at his attacker, picked him up and threw him to the ground.
The younger boy staggered away, stunned and hurt.
Both students were suspended for four days after the incident which took place on Monday.
How can you justify punishing the victim with the very same punishment as the bully?
How can you let the kids filming and commentating from the sidelines go unpunished? Talk about enablers!
How can the school not accept some of the blame for the lack of adequate supervision and providing an environment where such bullying exists. If the film hadn’t been shot, there probably wouldn’t have been any punishments. How can this happen in an age where there is a higher level of bullying awareness?
Below is the link to the video. I must warn you it is not for the squeamish.
http://video.heraldsun.com.au/1841676941/Shocking-school-fight-video
Suspended for 4 days? Seriously? The school should have closed down for 4 days, and made to use that time to reflect on its core values.
Topical Teaching 