In a recent episode of the “Modern Parenting” series, Nama Winston shared a poignant story about her son’s experience with bullying and the unexpected reaction from his school. You can stream this insightful episode for free on SBS On Demand.

Her son had endured name-calling and was physically attacked on his way home from school that day, pushing Winston to take action on his behalf.

Determined to stand up for her child, Winston was taken aback by the school’s immediate and intense response — one that defied her expectations.

Reflecting on the situation, Nama Winston expressed her amazement at how quickly the school addressed her son’s bullying, turning her initial fear into a moment of relief and surprise.

This experience highlights the importance of advocacy and the potential for positive outcomes when institutions respond proactively to bullying.

To my utter shock, his fury was strong and his reaction swift — but not in the way I expected.

Nama Winston says she was astounded by her school’s swift response to her son’s bullying. Source: Supplied

Winston’s safety was his priority and he immediately implemented a plan, which he explained at a morning staff meeting.

Having heard and seen so much about bullying as a parenting editor, the school’s response blew me away.

But too many other Australian parents tell me they’ve been scared to do the same.

Smashing a taboo

Recently, when I spoke about my son’s bullying experience on the Insight episode Modern Parenting, two parents approached me afterwards to say it was a relief to hear others had gone through the same struggle of being unsure of what to do.

Nama (left) says her son Winston’s (right) experience of bullying made her realise the topic remained taboo among parents. Source: Supplied

So why is talking about the bullying of their child so difficult for so many parents? Why the silence?

“They are ashamed about being bullied. They think they’re a loser.”

But suffering in silence means the taboo continues.