Anti Bullying

The ContinU Plus Anti-Bullying & Support

At our school, we believe every child has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued. Bullying is never a "normal" part of growing up and is not tolerated in our community.

What is Bullying?

Bullying is deliberate, hurtful behaviour that is often repeated over time. It makes a person feel unsafe and can happen in several ways:

• Physical: Hitting, kicking, or taking belongings.

• Verbal: Name-calling, teasing, or threatening.

• Emotional: Spreading rumours or intentionally leaving someone out.

• Cyberbullying: Unkind messages or posts made online or via mobile phones.

Our Commitment

We work together—pupils, staff, and parents—to create a culture of kindness and respect. Our school:

• Celebrates diversity and inclusion through displays and lessons.

• Holds regular assemblies and participates in Anti-Bullying Week.

• Provides specialist support, including our school counsellor, Mark Thresh, who works with pupils to build emotional health.

How to Report Bullying

If you are being bullied, or if you see it happening to someone else, tell someone you trust immediately. You can:

1. Talk to a Teacher: Any member of staff is here to listen and help.

2. Use the Report Box: Found in the [Insert Location, e.g., Library].

3. Online Reporting: Parents and pupils can complete our Confidential Reporting Form.

Resources for Parents & Pupils

• NSPCC Advice: Tips on stopping bullying and cyberbullying.

• Kidscape: Specialist guidance for parents and carers.

• Anti-Bullying Alliance: Interactive tools for children and young people.

💡 Remember: Choosing respect and kindness makes our school a better place for everyone.

Cyberbullying & Online Safety

Digital behaviour is just as important as face-to-face conduct. Under the Online Safety Act 2023, platforms now have a legal duty to protect children from harmful content, but our school community remains the first line of defence.

What is Cyberbullying?

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like mobiles, computers, and tablets. In 2026, this includes: 

• Harassment: Sending mean, or threatening messages via social media or gaming platforms.

• Exclusion: Purposely leaving someone out of online groups or chats.

• Deep fakes & AI: The misuse of AI to create manipulated or embarrassing images/videos of others.

• Impersonation: Creating fake profiles to damage someone’s reputation. 

Five Steps to Stay Safe 

If something happens online that makes you feel uncomfortable, remember to S.T.O.P.:

1. Save the Evidence: Take screenshots of messages or posts. Do not delete them!

2. Tell a Trusted Adult: Talk to a parent, teacher, or our school counsellor, Mark Thresh.

3. Only Connect with Friends: Keep your profiles private and only accept people you know in real life.

4. Pause Before You Post: If you’re angry or upset, step away from the screen before sending anything.

5. Block and Report: Use the "Report" tools on apps like TikTok, Instagram, or Discord immediately.

Our School Mobile Policy

In line with DfE 2026 guidance, our school supports the prohibition of phones and similar technology usage during the school day. This helps:

• Reduce digital distractions.

• Prevent peer-on-peer abuse during school hours.

• Protect the privacy of all students and staff. 

Advice for Parents

• Set Boundaries: Use parental control tools like Google Family Link or Apple Screen Time.

• Open Dialogue: Ask your child about their "digital life" just as you would ask about their school day.

• Report Serious Incidents: If cyberbullying involves threats of violence or illegal content, you should report it to the police.