Bullying Policy

INTRODUCTION

The Board of Trustees in providing a safe physical and emotional environment is committed to eliminating bullying in any form (violence, intimidation, harassment) that causes undue anxiety or stress to others. This policy is to be enacted in accordance with the School’s Harassment policy and is one part of the School’s response to all forma of harassment. The Board considers that bullying of students is a serious matter and warrants special emphasis within the Harassment Policy.

OBJECTIVES

  1. To educate our School community that bullying is never acceptable.
  2. To provide guidelines for teachers to deal with bullying should it occur.
  3. To establish procedures which promote the elimination of bullying and unmanaged anger.
  4. To promote an “anti bullying” climate amongst students and adults in our School.

GUIDELINES

  1. Teachers will discuss bullying with students, emphasizing its unacceptability and actively encourage all actual or alleged cases to be reported in accordance with Harassment Policy Guidelines.
  2. Conflict resolution, assertiveness training and peer support programmes will be taught to students.
  3. Staff will treat all reports of bullying seriously and intervene to stop the behaviour(s).
  4. Staff on duty will be vigilant about patrolling areas and situations where bullying might occur.
  5. Staff will take action to prevent the bullying recurring , and problem solve to eliminate the behaviour; and, if serious, report the bullying to the Principal or a Deputy Principal. Initially, a “No Blame” approach shall be used.
  6. The victim(s) of bullying will be supported and reassured. If violence has occurred or bullying persists parents/caregivers will be advised by the Principal. Victims will be given “safe” places to be and the situation will be resolved as soon as possible.
  7. If the bully persists with violence, intimidation, harassment or mismanagement of anger, her/his parents/caregivers will be informed and advised of action taken or to be taken by the Principal. It may include accessing specialised help.
  8. Bullying, serious or repeated, will be subject to the School’s normal disciplinary procedures (see Playground Supervisor Policy, Complaints of Staff Policy, Child Abuse Policy and Ministry of Education procedures for Suspension).

CONCLUSION

If we are to succeed in eliminating bullying in all its forms, commitment and action will be required from our whole School community to create a safer environment.

View Policy in Adobe Acrobat PDF format

Chairperson: John Talbot

Approved Date: 17 July 2006

Review Date: July 2009

 

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