PEERS® Bullyproof Bootcamp

The PEERS® Bullyproof Bootcamp equips teens (13–17 years) and young adults (18–35 years) with practical strategies to handle teasing, bullying, and social conflict with confidence. Run by psychologists at our psychology clinic in Mascot, this workshop is based on UCLA’s internationally recognised PEERS® curriculum. Across two dynamic holiday sessions, participants gain step-by-step guidance, practise behavioural rehearsals, and learn real-world strategies to strengthen resilience in challenging peer situations.

Benefits

Learn effective strategies to respond to teasing and embarrassing feedback
Build confidence in managing rumours, gossip, and reputation challenges
Strengthen resilience against cyber bullying and physical bullying
Gain practical skills for handling and bringing up disagreements
Develop tools to stay calm, assertive, and socially confident in difficult situations
Parents and caregivers gain coaching strategies to reinforce skills at home and in the community

Structure

Format: Small-group workshop with direct coaching and behavioural rehearsals
Delivery: Step-by-step instruction, role-play demonstrations, and video examples with breakout group practice
Duration: Two full-day sessions (9:30 am – 3:30 pm) during school holidays
Availability: Offered during school holidays, based on expressions of interest

Topics Included

Handling teasing
Responding to embarrassing feedback
Minimising cyber bullying
Managing rumours and gossip
Handling physical bullying
Responding to disagreements
Bringing up disagreements
Changing a reputation

Participation Requirements

Age Range: Adolescents (13–17) and young adults (18–35)
Suitable for: Individuals with Autism Level 1, ADHD, anxiety, or social communication difficulties
Parent/Carer Involvement: Strongly encouraged, with at least one parent or support person acting as a “social coach”
Commitment: Attendance for the full bootcamp and willingness to practise skills outside sessions
Availability: Run during school holiday periods, based on expressions of interest

Why It Matters

Bullying and peer conflict can significantly affect mental health, self-esteem, and social confidence. For neurodiverse adolescents and young adults, these challenges are often magnified without the right strategies. The PEERS® Bullyproof Bootcamp provides a safe, supportive, and evidence-based environment where participants learn, practise, and master skills that empower them to stand up to bullying and navigate conflict effectively—building long-term resilience and confidence.