Anti-Bullying Policy

Having an anti-bullying policy is crucial to ensure a safe and supportive environment for our young learners. This policy outlines what Theresa Nuzzo School will do to prevent and tackle bullying.

1. Introduction

Our school is committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all the community at school, so our learners can learn in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our school.

2. Definition of Bullying

Bullying is the use of repetitive intentional hurting of one person or group, by another person or group, where the relationship involves an imbalance of power. It can be:

Physical: Hitting, kicking, pushing or any use of violence.
Verbal: Name-calling, teasing, threats or making offensive remarks.
Emotional: Excluding, spreading rumours or making someone feel bad about themselves.
Cyber-bullying: Using electronic means to harm others, such as through social media, texts or emails.

3. Aims and Objectives

To ensure all learners, staff and parents understand what bullying is.
To ensure all learners, staff and parents know what the school policy on bullying is.
To ensure that all learners feel safe and supported in school.

4. Prevention Strategies

Education and Awareness: Regularly educate learners about bullying through assemblies, classroom discussions, activities and early intervention.
Positive School Climate: Foster a culture of respect and inclusion. Encourage positive behaviour and recognize acts of kindness.
Supervision: Adequate supervision in areas where bullying is likely to occur, such as playgrounds and hallways.
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Implement SEL programs during PSCD lessons to help learners develop empathy, manage emotions and build positive relationships.

5. Reporting and Responding to Bullying

Reporting: Encourage students to report bullying to a trusted adult. Provide multiple channels for reporting, including anonymous options.
Investigation: All reports of bullying will be taken seriously and investigated promptly and thoroughly.
Response: Appropriate actions will be taken based on the investigation. This may include counselling, mediation and disciplinary measures.

6. Support

Victims: Provide support and counselling to learners who have been bullied. Ensure they feel safe and valued.
Bullies: Work with learners who bully others to understand the impact of their actions and help them change their behaviour.
Bystanders: Encourage learners who witness bullying to speak up and support their peers.

7. Communication

Parents and Guardians: Keep parents informed about any incidents involving their children.
Staff Training: Regularly train staff on how to identify, prevent and respond to bullying.

8. Monitoring and Review

Regularly review the policy to ensure its effectiveness. Gather feedback from learners, staff and parents to make necessary improvements.

By implementing this policy, we aim to create a safe and nurturing environment where all learners can thrive.

September 2024