More than 200 learners from 20 primary schools across the Metro East Education District (MEED) came together at Irista Primary School in Kuils River on Wednesday 24 June to take a stand against bullying as part of the “Be the Change Crew – Kindness is our Power” anti-bullying learner-empowerment campaign.

The initiative, organised by MEED’s school social-work component of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), in which Grade 6 and 7 learners were brought together for an interactive morning focused on promoting kindness, respect, inclusion and positive leadership.

Equipping learners with practical skills

The campaign responded to a growing concern about bullying in schools by equipping learners with practical skills to recognise bullying, support their peers and seek help when needed. Rather than remaining bystanders, learners were encouraged to become “upstanders” who actively contribute to creating safer and more caring school communities.

An action-packed morning

The morning’s keynote session was facilitated by Jonathan Mouers from Back2Basics, who captivated learners through music, dance, storytelling and interactive activities while working through the specially designed “Be the Change Crew” learner workbook.

Learners also heard from Childline Western Cape, Kuils River police and the Department of Social Development, who highlighted such topics as body safety, child-abuse awareness, the legal implications of bullying as well as support available to children and families.

Taking the pledge

One of the highlights of the event was the Change Crew Pledge, where all 200 learners committed themselves to promoting kindness, respect and inclusion within their schools. Each learner received a resource pack containing a specially designed anti-bullying workbook, stationery, a “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully” button badge and a certificate of achievement.

A message that goes home

“Bullying affects not only the learner being targeted, but the entire school community,” said Melinda Wiese, one of the school social workers at MEED. “Our aim is to empower learners with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to become ambassadors of kindness and positive change in their schools. Every learner has the power to make a difference.

“The campaign forms part of MEED’s continued commitment to learner well-being, child protection and creating safe, supportive learning environments where every learner feels valued and respected.”

Learners left wearing their “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully” badges, carrying a powerful message back to their schools: be kind, speak up, include others, be the change.

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