On Wednesday, 1st June, our middle school (Yr. 7-9) students attended a performance by Backflips Against Bullying. The performers used backflips, tumbles and dialogue to engage the students in a conversation about the real-world consequences of physical, verbal and social harassment. During the session, the students were shown what targeted and repeated harassment and cyber-bullying looks like. The performers also highlighted the effect of uneven power dynamics in relationships and suggested ways that young people can manage these difficult relationships. The students were then taught resilience tactics for handling bullies and were told the two key tactics, which are, firstly, not to get upset and, secondly, to treat the bully like they are your friend. It was a dynamic session, and the students were able to gain a meaningful understanding of what bullying is and how they can manage bullying in their day-to-day life.

Alison Johnson