[RECAP]:
On 17 October 2025, the Centre for Child Law was honoured to be invited to Lerutle Primary School in Daveyton, to engage with Grade 4 to 7 learners on the rights and responsibilities of children, focusing on bullying and respect in schools.
The session formed part of a broader school campaign under the theme “Creating Safe Spaces – Every Child Deserves Respect and Belonging.” Our representative shared insights on how children’s rights, as protected under the Constitution of South Africa, and the Children’s Act, can empower learners to speak out against bullying and help build schools where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
Bullying remains one of the most pressing challenges in South African schools. From verbal teasing and social exclusion to cyberbullying and physical intimidation, these experiences can deeply affect children’s mental health, learning, and self-esteem. Research and reports from the Department of Basic Education and organisations such as UNICEF South Africa continue to highlight how bullying not only harms victims but also disrupts the overall sense of safety and belonging within schools.
Through dialogues like this, we aim to help learners:
✅ Understand their rights and responsibilities in promoting respect and empathy.
✅ Recognise different forms of bullying and how to respond safely.
✅ Know where and how to seek help, whether from teachers, peers, parents, or community structures.
We commend Lerutle Primary School, the Ubuntu Social & Community Development Club, and all participating partners for creating a platform where learners’ voices are heard and valued. Together, we can nurture a culture of kindness, accountability, and protection for every child. 💙
#childjustice #ChildRights #StopBullying #SafeSchools #RespectAndBelonging #UbuntuInAction #EveryChildMatters #CreatingSafeSpaces