ONCE a week police officer sergeant Zac Bull works with vulnerable and at risk students at Swan Hill Specialist School (SHSS).
Sgt Bull was recently awarded for his dedication and hard work of the past four years with Victoria Police’s Public Advocates Award.
He received a commendation for outstanding police service for people with disability at an awards ceremony in Melbourne.
“I think the staff at SHSS do such a good job and that award is part of what the staff do really,” Sgt Bull said.
Based at Wedderburn Police Station, Sgt Bull said his role was about building a bridge between police and the students.
“Some of the kids will see police only in a negative light,” Sgt Bull told The Guardian.
“So we’re just trying to break down barriers and really encourage communication.”
He is part of SHSS’s Police in Schools Program as a member of the school’s wellbeing team.
The police officer said his role included checking on the students welfare and discussing issues with them they had at home and school.
“Dealing with the root of the problem and working with the family to engage support agencies that are around,” Sgt Bull said.
Sgt Bull commended SHSS school principal Jodi Walters and assistant principal David Gracia for focussing their school program on the students.
“Having me on board is adding to that,” he said.
“Some of these children have a hard life and they’re the most vulnerable and at risk youth.
“We’re all just banding around to help them get through life.”
Sgt Bull said he hoped to implement similar programs at specialist schools in Maryborough and Bendigo.
This is his first police award.
Born-and-raised in Gippsland, Sgt Bull worked as a chef in Geelong before relocating his family to Swan Hill 10 years ago.
Ms Walters nominated Sgt Bull for the award.
The school principal said she was impressed to see the Department of Education and Victoria Police working alongside one another.
“We’re lucky that the department has allowed us to be flexible (with the time Sgt Bull spends with the school), and Victoria Police as well,” she said.
“We’re very excited to offer that program and it’s only through that connection to Victoria Police and that hierarchy to be able to happen.
“We are grateful to have the positive partnership that supports students and families.”
Maroon room student Mia Saunders told The Guardian Sgt Bull helped her deal with family and school issues.
“Mr Bull really helps me because when I need him to do something he’s on it straight away,” Mia said.
“Because he’s a police officer I trust him to keep something a secret (something confidential).”
