Difficult subject of bullying candidly explored at Ellenbrook Secondary College

Constable Care Child Safety Foundation’s youth arm, Theatrical Response Group, worked with the school’s Year 7 drama students over 10 weeks to develop Smash Park, which explored strategies for resolving aggression, conflict and bullying.

The audience was encouraged to participate during the performance by debating possible solutions, role-playing and developing sensible decision-making strategies, which influenced the performance ending.

The group’s facilitator, Scott Corbett, said the program was aimed at engaging young people in dialogue so they could work out how to best overcome challenging situations they were likely to face.

“We’ve found that teachers are astounded by the openness and willingness of the students to discuss the challenging situations they often face, be it bullying and domestic violence or alcohol and drug abuse,” he said.

Year 7 drama teacher Donna Hallett said the program was a positive experience for students.

“The students really enjoyed the whole process and are looking forward to performing Smash Park for their friends and families,” she said.