Anti-Bullying Policy

Introductory Statement
The policy is a collaborative exercise between Parents, Teachers, Board of Management and pupils

Rationale
The policy was prioritised at a school-planning day for review and amendment.

Definition
‘Repeated aggression, verbal, psychological or physical, conducted by an individual or group against others’ (Homework Notebook)
The most common forms of this type of behaviour are aggressive physical contact, name-calling, intimidation, extortion, isolation and taunting.

Relationship to characteristic spirit of the school
As outlined in our mission statement, we wish to nurture each child to develop his/her potential in a happy, safe environment. Bullying behaviour is contrary to this ethos as it undermines and dilutes the quality of education and has an adverse affect on victims.  

Aims

• To raise awareness of bullying as an unacceptable behaviour with school management, teaching and non-teaching staff, pupils and parents/guardians.

• To foster a school ethos which encourages children to disclose and discuss incidents of bullying behaviour.

• To clarify procedures for preventing, investigating and dealing with bullying behaviour.

Guidelines

• If a child makes a complaint against another child, the teacher will investigate the allegation

• Teachers who are investigating cases of alleged bullying should keep a written record of their discussions with those involved.

• The teacher can advise parents to keep their own records

• The teacher will make a judgement as to when it is necessary for the incident to be referred to the principal or other designated teacher

• A folder will be kept in the Principal’s office with details of  incidents

• The Principal will normally request parents of pupil/s involved to record their account of the incident on the Standard Incident Form.

• The Principal will investigate the allegations and where a pattern of bullying behaviour is established he will then contact the parents of the accused if appropriate.

• Sanctions will be applied in accordance with the School’s Code of Discipline, ‘Towards Positive Behaviour’ as published in the Homework Notebook

• For cases of adult bullying the procedures as outlined in the INTO/Management Bodies publication ‘Working Together, Procedures and Policies for Positive Staff Relations’ should be followed

Guidelines towards promoting a positive Climate in the school

• Home / school links to be promoted to counter bullying behaviour

•  ‘Annual Friendship Week’ to promote a ‘zero tolerance’ attitude, and a raised awareness of bullying as an unacceptable form of behaviour

•  An Assembly focus on friendship and anti- bullying in conjunction with Annual Friendship Week.

• Stay Safe / SPHE lessons to be taught as whole class lessons monthly, dealing with self esteem, respect and the issue of bullying. (Appendix 1

• Circle Time, to encourage openness and dialogue.

Thank you for taking the time to read this document. If you have any concerns regarding this policy please contact the Principal.