An important aspect of anti bullying is the introduction of the physical presence of the BUDDY SEAT to provide a real tangible symbol of support and safety.

Buddy Benches provide an ideal solution to bullying in schools.  Buddy Bench seats are long lasting aluminium and easy to maintain. An important aspect of anti bullying is the introduction of the physical presence of the buddy seat to provide a real and tangible solution for children in school and to reassure parents that their kids will find a solution to any anti social behaviour in the schoolyard. Moreover, this anti bullying message in the school community is reflected in the broader community with the buddy bench seats programs.

Teachers discuss the purpose of the Buddy Bench Seat with students to develop a total understanding that it is a place students can sit when they don’t have anyone to play with.The Buddy seat has played an important role in students feeling of belonging and being connected in their school environment.

Students know that they have an important role to play in assisting the buddy bench program

Our Rotary Club of Rockhampton Fitzroy to date, have had constructed and installed 13 Buddy Seats in our local community. They are at
2 x St Paul’s Primary School, Gracemere
2 x Warraburra State School, Gracemere
2 x Bajool State School, Bajool
1 x Gracemere State School, Gracemere
2 x Bouldercombe State School, Bouldercombe
1 x Port Curtis Road State School, Rockhampton
1 x Berserker Street State School, North Rockhampton
1 x The Hall State School, Rockhampton
1 x Stanwell State School, Stanwell

Buddy Seats in Primary Schools play an important role in providing an avenue for vulnerable students to reach out and seek support.
The benefits are twofold; it’s a way for children to overcome loneliness, and make friendships.
For the children responding to the vulnerable children and asking them, are you Ok? It builds self esteem, leadership, empathy and compassion.
This leads to creating a positive community outcome by instilling values and conscience in our youth.

We have been given very positive feedback from the school principals, teachers and parents from the schools we have installed our Buddy Seats.
Staff have witnessed students embracing the use of the seats for the purpose it was designed.
Such is the success of these Club project, we have been overwhelmed by requests to provide more Buddy Seats in the school yards across our local District.

Our Club has a applied for a Community Grant from Ergon and if we are successful we hope to have another 6 in local primary schools by mid year. We will continue to seek grants and fundraise also.

Regards
Charter Member
Berny Cross
Rotary Club of Rockhampton Fitzroy