Anti-Bullying
Our aim is for all pupils to learn in a supportive, caring and safe environment without fear of being bullied.
We define Bullying as:
“The repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or group by another person or group, where the relationship involves an imbalance of power.
Bullying can be physical, verbal or psychological. It can happen face-to-face or online.”
It is not the same thing as a disagreement between two people. Bullying is:
usually systematic and repeated, though one-off events can turn into bullying behaviour
done by a person who perceives themselves as more powerful than the victim
distressing and hurtful to the victim rather than gentle banter between friends
usually one way rather than an exchange
Bullying is anti-social behaviour and affects everyone; it is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Pupils are always encouraged to report all bullying – whether it involves themselves or another pupil.
For further information about our Anti-Bullying strategy, please read our Behaviour Policy
Sadly bullying behaviour happens in all schools. We firmly believe that by everyone working together (staff, students and parents), we as a school can take significant strides towards preventing bullying from happening in the first place and can also successfully intervene where it has occurred to prevent it from recurring again.
In addition all adults within the school seek to role model to students what strong, positive relationships look like. Even if it seems like they are not paying attention, children and young people are continually watching how adults manage stress and conflict, as well as how they treat their friends, colleagues, and families. By treating others with kindness and respect, we aim to show to all students that there is no place for bullying behaviour towards others - that it is not acceptable, at any time and in any form.
Reporting Bullying
We encourage any student that encounters any form of bullying to report it immediately, whether they are the victim or someone that has witnessed it. This can be done by talking to an adult in school or a parent/carer, or other trusted adult.
We always investigate allegations about bullying behaviours either on the day it is reported, or if it arrives at an evening or weekend we will respond the next day that students are back in school.
Support for students that have experienced bullying behaviour from others
We recognise that students that have experienced bullying will be anxious that it may not stop, or even that it may get worse having reported it. We work very hard to support students through this time (and beyond), to help them manage their anxieties and then to rebuild their confidence. Usually this will involve a designated adult regularly checking in with them and offering help and support as needed.