Compensation for suffering from school bullying?

I was bullied at school many years ago and feel that a duty of care was not given to me by the teaching staff. I have written a letter to the Catholic Education Department and told them I want to take legal action. They instructed me to get my lawyer to contact them in regards to negotiations. Can I represent myself in regards to this negotiation wit out the use of a lawyer? I guess what I am asking is it legally necessary for me to be represented or can I negotiate on my own behalf. I have written them a letter for a settlement amount on my behalf. Any other advice would be helpful.. Thankyou