Anti-bullying policy
What is bullying?
Bullying is any repeated behaviour — physical or psychological — that causes harm and involves a real or perceived imbalance of power. It can take many forms:
➜ Physical: hitting, pushing, or other aggressive acts
➜ Verbal: teasing, name-calling, or threats
➜ Social: exclusion, spreading rumours
➜ Online: cyberbullying through messages, photos, or social media
At our school, we foster a culture of kindness, empathy, and respect. Through our Human Values curriculum, we support children in developing self-respect and respect for others, both of which are foundational to our community.
We take a proactive approach to bullying. Our aim is to prevent it through education, communication, and support, rather than responding only after harm has occurred.
Bullying can severely affect a child’s sense of safety, self-worth, and willingness to attend school. Addressing both the victim’s emotional needs and the underlying causes behind the bully’s behaviour is essential.
Our School's Anti-Bullying Approach
We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful school environment. Our program is based on:
Rules
Bullying is never acceptable, and this message is clearly communicated to all students, staff, and parents.
We do not tolerate behaviours that harm another child physically or emotionally.
Rights
Every student has the right to feel safe and secure at school.
Every student has the right to learn and grow without fear of mistreatment.
Responsibility
Students are expected to treat others with respect and report bullying (as victims or witnesses).
Guides and educators address bullying openly in class through the Human Values curriculum and social-emotional education. They are required to intervene when they witness harmful behaviour and notify the Head of School.
Parents should notify the school if they suspect or know their child is involved in a bullying situation — as a target, a bystander, or a participant — so that we can work together toward resolution.
No Tolerance for Bullying
We maintain a no-tolerance policy for bullying once we are made aware of it. However, we understand that children may hesitate to report it. In many cultures, harmful attitudes such as “boys will be boys” or “you need to toughen up” are still present — but at our school, intimidation in any form is never acceptable.
We encourage all children to speak up — not only for themselves but also on behalf of others. Reporting is not “tattling”; it is a sign of maturity, safety awareness, and self-advocacy.
Understanding the Behaviour
We recognize that in younger children, bullying-type behaviour often stems from frustration, impulsivity, or lack of empathy rather than intentional cruelty.
Through our curriculum, we:
➜ Teach emotional regulation and communication
➜ Guide children to think before speaking or acting
➜ Help them develop empathy and respectful ways of expressing feelings
We also teach students how to recognize bullying, stand up respectfully, and seek help when needed.
Partnering with Families
We deeply value your support in reinforcing this message at home.
Together, we can:
➜ Model respectful behaviour
➜ Talk about the importance of kindness and inclusion
➜ Empower children to speak up and support one another
What happens when bullying is reported
When a bullying incident is reported — whether by a student, teacher, or parent — we take it seriously and follow a clear, respectful, and confidential process:
Initial Observation or Report
➜ The Guide, assistant, or staff member will document the incident and speak with the student(s) involved separately.
➜ The Head of School is informed promptly.
Investigation
➜We speak with witnesses, involved students, and when necessary, families, to gather a full picture.
➜We always aim to approach this from a place of understanding and resolution, especially when dealing with young children.
Restorative Approach
➜ For first-time or mild incidents, we use restorative practices: conflict resolution conversations, guided reflection, and apologies.
➜ We help children understand the impact of their actions, develop empathy, and offer ways to make amends.
Support for the Targeted Child
➜ We offer emotional support and involve the parents.
➜We work with the child to rebuild a sense of safety and belonging, and monitor the situation going forward.
Support and Guidance for the Student Exhibiting Harmful Behaviour
➜ We look at underlying causes (frustration, social difficulties, emotional needs).
➜A behaviour plan or regular check-ins may be implemented, with possible involvement from our school counsellor.
Follow-Up and Communication
➜ Both families are kept informed (as appropriate to the age of the children).
➜ We follow up to ensure the behaviour has stopped and that all children feel safe and respected.
Escalation (if needed)
Repeated or serious bullying may result in:
➜ Individual support plans
➜ Closer home-school collaboration
➜In rare cases, temporary removal from the classroom or further disciplinary action will take place.
