Reminder – Anti Bullying Information and Survey to Parents
4 August 2026
Dear Parents/Carers,
At Marist Eastwood, the wellbeing and safety of every student remain our highest priorities.
As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive learning
environment, we continually review student wellbeing data and school practices.
Recent school data has indicated an increase in moderate incidents of bullying. While the
majority of our students continue to demonstrate the Marist values of respect, compassion
and responsibility, this emerging trend highlights the need for renewed focus and proactive
action across our community.
In response, Marist Eastwood aligned with Sydney Catholic Schools is strengthening its
approach to bullying prevention and intervention. This work aligns closely with the
findings of the Australian Government’s Anti-Bullying Rapid Review, which called for a
national reset in how schools prevent, identify and respond to bullying behaviours. The
review emphasises the importance of consistent procedures, early intervention, staff
capability building, and strong partnerships between schools and families.
As part of this commitment, staff will participate in professional learning workshops
throughout this term facilitated by Free to Be Resources. These workshops will focus on:
● Recognising subtle forms of bullying behaviours that can go unnoticed in the
classrooms.
● Language that interrupts behaviour without escalating conflict
● Strategies to hold behavior accountable while maintaining the integrity
● Practical proactive strategies strategies to reduce opportunities for bullying to occur
● Ensuring all staff have a shared understanding of school expectations and reporting
procedures.
In addition, students in Year 8 will be participating in a student workshop “The Social
Compass”, and a parent workshop for year 8 parents to build on this information will also
take place, facilitated by Free to Be Resources. More information will be provided to year 8
parents in a separate letter.
As well as this and along with Sydney Catholic Schools we will continue reviewing our
anti-bullying policies and practices to ensure they reflect current research, best practice,
and the recommendations outlined in the national review. As such we invite parents to
complete this survey. This survey will provide the College with additional information to
support our steps moving forward.
We recognise that addressing bullying is a shared responsibility between schools, students
and families. We encourage parents and caregivers to maintain open conversations with
their children about respectful relationships, kindness, and the importance of reporting
concerns when they arise.
Should you have any concerns regarding your child’s wellbeing or experiences at school,
please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Leader of Wellbeing.
Together, we can ensure that Marist Eastwood remains a community where every student
feels safe, valued, respected and supported to flourish.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support.
Yours sincerely,
Ms Linda Codamo
Director of Wellbeing
