Fund aims to fight bullies

A $12million national anti-bullying programme was launched at a stand-out Hawke's Bay school yesterday.

The government initiative, Te Punanga Haumaru, was launched at Hastings Intermediate School by Associate Minister for Social Development Tariana Turia.

Ms Turia said the school was the perfect example of a safe and positive learning environment she hoped the programme would allow to be imitated throughout New Zealand.

"I know this funding will not only give parents and families and communities the tools and information they need to deal with problems but will empower them to come up with what works best for them and their children," she said.

Principal Andrew Shortcliffe said he had introduced programmes at the school that created a culture of safety, security and confidence.

Student attendance rose from 85 per cent to 94 per cent, and stand-down levels dropped from one in 16 students, to one in 400 - with none issued in the past 18 months.

The programmes are supported by 24 national and local businesses and have been presented to more than a dozen schools and principals throughout New Zealand.

"We try to create a culture of success," he said. "We want to teach the right sorts of behaviour practices and models."

The whanau-centred programme will provide $3million per year to family and community initiatives that offer support for children.

"It is about making sure our mokopuna and tamariki are safe and emotionally resilient - to invest in them to develop to their full potential," Ms Turia said.

The programme will be rolled out regionally, and further details of the fund and how to apply will be advertised on the Family and Community Services website from the first week of August.