Combating Bullying
Events like the Smoking Ceremony also educate students on the importance of diversity and inclusion, helping to prevent bullying by promoting respect for all individuals.
Educating students about racism and discrimination empowers them to stand up against bullying and support their peers- by being a strong upstander. At Fairhills a number one priority is to create SOLE (Safe Orderly Learning Environment) a school culture where bullying is not tolerated, and all students feel safe and respected.
Throughout our level assemblies, house groups and Thrive classes this term we have continued our emphasis in growing connections, to help prevent bullying and being an upstander.
People all over the world are taking up the challenge of the upstander movement, in particular young students who want to see changes in their school. This is no different at Fairhills where we have seen many students/parents come forward to report harmful behaviours. I am so proud of the students that continue to call bullying out.
When you see any kind of harm say something by reporting it to your team leader or through Stymie at www.stymie.com.au
National Reconciliation Week.
Fairhills High School proudly recognized National Reconciliation Week by holding a significant and culturally enriching event—a Smoking Ceremony. Uncle Colin Hunter Jr, a proud Wurundjeri man, led this important ceremony.
A Smoking Ceremony is a traditional Aboriginal custom that involves burning native plants to produce smoke. This smoke is used for various purposes, such as cleansing an area, warding off bad spirits, and promoting the well-being of participants. It holds deep cultural significance and is often conducted to mark the beginning of important events and gatherings.
It was symbolic that the ceremony took place in our community courtyard outside the new Senior School and Learning Centre – as these new facilities start our students on an amazing learning journey. Participants were immersed in the ritual and the rich storytelling by Uncle Colin. This ceremony provided a meaningful start to National Reconciliation Week, reinforcing the importance of recognizing and respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
The ceremony provided students and staff with a first hand experience of an Aboriginal cultural practice, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures. It is an opportunity for learning about the meaning and significance of the ceremony and the role it plays in Aboriginal traditions.
Inviting Uncle Colin Hunter Jr, a respected Wurundjeri elder, to lead the ceremony, strengthens the school’s connection with the local Indigenous community. It shows a commitment to building relationships (one of our core values) and learning directly from Aboriginal knowledge holders.
