Anti Bullying Policy INTRODUCTION This policy applies to all members of this community and takes account of the DfE guidance “Preventing and Tackling Bullying – Advice for Headteachers, Staff and Governing Bodies” (July 2017). This is a document of the Government’s legal obligations, the powers that schools have to tackle bullying and the principles that underpin the most effective anti-bullying strategies in schools. This Policy is also mindful on the Equality Act 2010 and the protected characteristics outlined therein, the Education Act of 2011, and of Keeping Children Safe in Education (September 2020). Everyone has the right to live their lives without feeling bullied, threatened or unsafe. Bullying, although unfortunate and wrong does happen and we, at Woodhouse Grove, are committed to minimising its occurrence and dealing with it effectively when it arises. It is important however, to distinguish between ‘What is bullying’ and ‘What is not’ and be aware that certain incidents depending on their nature will be dealt with differently. Bullying is behaviour by an individual or group, repeated over time, that intentionally hurts another individual or group either physically or emotionally. (DfE 2017) Part of our school’s ethos is to value individuals and this is a culture we seek to nurture which has been commended by a recent Inspection Report marking the school as Excellent. ISI Educational Quality Inspection Report March 2017
Pupils show a high degree of empathy towards others: as peer mentors, older pupils help younger pupils. Pupils report that diversity is a positive feature of the school community. They are proud of their integrated community and feel strongly that they are encouraged to respect others. Inspectors agree; this was evident in pupil’s behaviour during the inspection. Pupils agree that the school provides them with a healthy and safe environment. Pupils work together effectively, solving problems, achieving common goals and fulfilling their responsibilities to each other and the school community.
AIMS & OBJECTIVES The aims of this anti-bullying policy are
to ensure that pupils live and learn in a supportive, caring and safe environment without fear of being bullied. The school acknowledges that bullying can lead to psychological damage and even suicide (See Mental Health Policy). To develop and maintain a culture in school based upon respect and good manners. To maintain a culture of vigilance through regular monitoring, review and evaluation of anti-bullying measures. To promote that pupils should care for each other. To ensure that bullying is clearly defined and different kinds of bullying are recognised by the community. To ensure signs of bullying are understood by all members of the community and that all members of the community know how to respond to, report and record incidents of bullying. To ensure the school works effectively with pupils and parents whether victim or bully, to manage, support and improve behaviour. 29 | P a g e
