Schools can now apply to join the Better Buddies community in 2012 for free. 

The Better Buddies Framework aims to help create a friendly and caring school environment to reduce bullying in schools. The Alannah and Madeline Foundation first introduced the Framework into 30 schools in 2007, and with the support of NAB, have increased the number of participating schools to more than 800, this year. Next year, NAB will sponsor another 150 schools to join the national program.

Where possible, each new participating school will be matched with a NAB Buddy - a local NAB representative who will attend and support Better Buddies school events throughout the year, to help create a safe environment for students.

"This wonderful Framework is really important to our children and our community," said Maree Stanley, The Alannah and Madeline Foundation's Manager of Prevention.

"We know bullying is a major issue in society and all children deserve a happy childhood and a safe school environment.  With the help of NAB, we are committed to implementing the Framework into as many schools as possible, to help to create a caring and supportive community," she said.

The Better Buddies Framework is designed to reduce the impact of bullying and promote a positive school community, as statistics show that one in six children are bullied each week in Australian schools (Rigby, 1998).

Older children in grades five and six 'buddy up' with students in their first year of school, to introduce and learn the Better Buddies values of caring for others, friendliness, respect, valuing difference, including others and responsibility.

NAB will provide each new school with a set of purple 'Buddy Bears' to launch the program in 2012, as well as other learning resources throughout the year to encourage students to work together with their buddies. 

Just 60 places remain for 2012. To nominate your school to join Better Buddies, and for further information about Better Buddies and The Alannah and Madeline Foundation, please visit: www.betterbuddies.org.au