Anti- Bullying Policy

Bullying of any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at Crossley Street.

At this school bullying is defined, “as a wilful, conscious desire to hurt, threaten or frighten someone consistently”.  Bullying may follow a pattern and is directed at one child by another child or group of children.  Bullying can take many forms.  It is a serious and complex matter, which can have profound consequences for children and parents.  We recognise that both victims and bullies may need held to stop the behaviour recurring.

Children will be offered many opportunities to learn desired behaviour and why rules are necessary if people are to live happily together.  Unkind behaviour is not tolerated, but on occasion, is inevitable and will be dealt with in a constructive way so that children can learn from their mistakes.  We encourage children to report problems and never retaliate, so that they can be dealt with quickly.  A member of staff will investigate all incidents.  Any serious incidents will be investigated and recorded by the Head Teacher and reported to governors.

We will employ the following strategies:

• It is made clear that bullying is not acceptable or tolerated by staff or pupils.

• If a child is being bullied action must be taken.

• Support will be offered to the victim and the bully.

• The bully will be made aware of the unacceptable behaviour and the consequences of any repetition.

• Parents will be informed of incidents of bullying and their full cooperation expected.

• Outside agencies may be called upon for support

• Staff monitor children’s response to school life, signs of distress will be followed up.

• Parents are encouraged to express concerns BUT MUST NOT ON ANY ACCOUNT APPROACH A CHILD ABOUT THE MATTER.

• Bullying issues and management strategies will be proactively taught through assemblies, stories, circle time, drama, circle of friends and RE.

• Sanctions previously outlined in the Behaviour Policy will be employed, at the discretion of staff.

Please refer to play time and lunchtime policies to support this document.

The Head Teacher, Chair of Governors and School Council pupil representative signed the DFE Anti-Bullying Charter, dated 13.2.04.  This fully supports school policy, which states that, bullying of any kind will not be tolerated.

Updated by Head Teacher November ’05.  Approved by staff Nov. ’05, Govs. Feb ’06, policy available in Head Teachers office/parent handbook, out at Open Night and agreed as part of Home School Agreement.