October saw Oakhill College embark on a month-long Anti-Bullying Awareness Campaign. The campaign aligned with International Mental Health Awareness Month and the aim was to highlight the impact that any kind of bullying has on an individual’s mental health. The activities which had all students engaged, placed the focus on not only the bully and the victim but also on the growing trend of being a bystander rather than taking a stand. There were conversations about what causes an individual to become a bully, and while we need to show zero tolerance for their actions, we still need to develop an understanding, as well as empathy for the individual.
The Grade 8 students embarked on a project where they were required to create a digital artwork that was 100% original, promoting a stand against all forms of bullying. The work that was produced was absolutely outstanding and showed such a deep understanding of the task. The Grade 9 to 11 students had to create poems from the viewpoint of either the bully, the victim, or the bystander. Once again, the work that was produced was deeply meaningful and insightful!
The top posters and poems were selected and all students and staff, as well as members from Knysna Rotary were given the chance to vote for their Top 3. The winning students in each grade were announced in assembly and presented with a prize. Herb Hunter, Rotary President, along with a number of Rotary members also attended the assembly to present Oakhill College with their Anti-Bullying Status plaque, in recognition of the College’s commitment to provide a bully-free, safe zone for all students.
We look forward to sharing the winning posters and poems!
