There was an increase in prejudice-based bullying at New Elgin Primary School in Moray. Staff believed that teaching children about protected traits would be beneficial. This helped to raise awareness and understanding in the school and community.

What the school did

In response senior leaders:

• reviewed the curriculum
• enhanced the role of learners in anti-bullying strategies
• developed a common language around bullying
• improved consistency in responding to bullying
• monitored and evaluated the success of these strategies

Anti-bullying curriculum

Senior leaders and staff worked with children to develop a common language about nurture and anti-bullying. As a result, the school community agrees on what bullying means and how to handle it.

Staff reviewed the school’s health and wellbeing curriculum. They made sure it now includes learning about protected characteristics.

Whole-school approaches

A large wall display, ‘Speak Out, Stay Safe’, has helped to reinforce the anti-bullying messages for children. This work has helped to set the scene for anti-bullying week.

‘It’s cool to be kind!’

The school has set up visual displays, including anti-bullying posters. They have incorporated an anti-bullying slogan created by the children. The poster gives clear advice about what to do if children experience face-to-face or online bullying.

An anti-bullying mascot, ‘Bumble the bear’, was also designed by the children. This has helped them to identify with the anti-bullying message.

Involving children and young people

To further the work on protected characteristics, school staff have set up a group of Primary 7 Ambassadors. These ambassadors reinforce messages about bullying and the protected characteristics. They have led assemblies on anti-bullying and made a powerful video to promote anti-bullying and kindness.

Ambassadors work with school staff to help children find restorative solutions when issues arise. They are very proud of their role in making the school a safe place to be.  This raises awareness and helps staff develop consistent anti-bullying procedures. It also ensures that communication with children and families is consistent and timely.

The impact and what changed for children and young people

As a result of these interventions children:

• understand the way in which bullying behaviour can impact the rights of others
• understand the actions they can take to deal with bullying when it happens
• know that it is important not to label those involved in bullying incidents as either ‘bullies’ or ‘victims’
• know that it is important to understand the causes and to seek a restorative solution

There are now leaflets to help children, families, and staff. They support a common language about anti-bullying. These offer a clear process for what will happen if a bullying incident occurs.

Clear communication ensures a consistent approach to anti-bullying. The school community understands and trusts this approach.