Anti-Bullying Advice for Parents

What is Bullying? 

At Minerva May School, we define bullying as “behaviour by an individual or group, repeated over time, that intentionally causes harm to another person, either physically or emotionally.” (DfE Preventing and Addressing Bullying, July 2017). 

It’s important to note that this definition doesn’t prevent us from taking action if a single incident occurs. In fact, even a one-time event will be addressed, recorded, and used to help us identify patterns. Our goal is to ensure that such incidents don’t escalate into ongoing issues. We take all instances of hurtful behaviour seriously, whether they happen once or repeatedly. 

Watch the ‘Definition of Bullying’ video below: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMRDl79vgTQ&t=128s 

Bullying can also take place online, which is referred to as cyberbullying.  

Examples include: 

  • Sending harmful messages 

  • Sharing embarrassing photos or videos 

  • Being unkind or hurtful on social media or in group chats 

We understand the impact that bullying—whether in person or online—can have on a child’s emotional wellbeing, and we are fully committed to addressing it promptly. 

Examples of Bullying Include: 

  • Name-calling or teasing 

  • Hitting, kicking, or other forms of physical harm 

  • Spreading rumours or lies 

How We Encourage Your Child to Respond to Bullying: 

  • Tell Someone They Trust: We encourage your child to speak up as soon as they feel uncomfortable or hurt. Letting us know allows us to take action quickly and effectively. 

  • Keep a Record: It’s helpful to keep track of incidents, whether they happen in person or online. For cyberbullying, taking screenshots and reporting the situation on the relevant platform is a good way to document events. 

  • Don’t Retaliate: We always advise students to walk away from confrontations when they can. Online, we remind them to avoid engaging with bullies. 

  • Stay with Supportive People: Spending time with friends who uplift them can help prevent further issues. There is safety in numbers. 

  • It’s Not Their Fault: Please remind your child that being bullied is never their fault. They do not deserve to be treated that way. 

  • Be Proud of Who They Are: Every student is unique, and no one should make them feel otherwise. 

  • Monitor Social Media Use: Encourage your child to interact with trusted friends only, and to be mindful of what they share online. 

  • Avoid Involving Others: Focusing on reporting incidents calmly and clearly, without escalating the situation, helps us resolve it effectively. 

Understanding Your Child’s Rights at School 

Your child has the right to participate in all school activities without feeling uncomfortable or unsafe. At Minerva May School, we work hard to prevent bullying and to promote a culture of respect.  

Here are some of the ways we do this: 

  • Assemblies: We regularly hold whole school assemblies to discuss important topics like kindness and respect. 

  • Skills for Life Lessons: These lessons provide students with strategies to handle difficult situations, including bullying. 

  • Tutor Time: Students spend time with their designated Pastoral and Learning Leads (tutors) each week to discuss key topics. 

  • Pastoral Support: Our pastoral team, teachers, and senior leaders are all here to support your child whenever they have concerns. 

  • Trained Staff: Every staff member is trained to manage and report any potential bullying incidents. 

  • Listening to Students: We listen to and value students' opinions and take action when necessary. 

  • Communication with Families: We will always keep you informed of any concerns that arise regarding your child. 

  • Working with External Experts: We collaborate with outside professionals to ensure that your child feels supported. 

  • Clear Behaviour and Anti-Bullying Policies: We have clear policies in place to prevent bullying and ensure everyone’s safety. 

  • Mental Health Support: We offer support for students who may be struggling emotionally. 

  • Swift Action: We act quickly to prevent problems from escalating. 

If you ever have any concerns or questions about bullying, please feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to support you and your child. 

Download our Anti-Bullying Policy