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Bullying is any deliberate & repeated action whether verbal or physical which is performed to cause mental or physical ill feeling to another.
Bullying can be perpetrated by adults or children.
Bullying is unacceptable in any shape or form. Our anti-bullying policy permeates all aspects of school life through promoting a caring and protective atmosphere within our school, where there is mutual respect, co-operation and natural justice. We aim to prevent bullying behaviour by our example in dealing with one another. We hold an anti-bullying week each year to increase awareness among all (the school community, pupils, parents/guardians and staff) of the nature of bullying and re-enforce the message that this is a ‘telling’ school where bullying behaviour is investigated, questioned and challenged.
Our school believes that building a child’s self-esteem is the best method of preventing that child from falling into either the bully or victim role. The building of self-esteem is an integral part of our school’s curriculum. All classes are taught about self-esteem as part of the Social Personal Health Education (S.P.H.E.) curriculum.
We have developed an anti bullying code of behaviour based upon the following:-
1. Treat other children kindly. Never kick, push, hit or spit. Use your brain not your fist.
1. Don’t tease another child or call them a name that might hurt their feelings
1. Be friendly! Never threaten another child or say bad things about them to others.
1. Remember that everyone has a right to their own things. Never take someone else’s belongings.
1. Use your own brain all the time. Never copy bad behaviour or join a bad gang.
1. Never keep bullying a secret. Be brave ! Always tell a parent or teacher. Remember that this school is a telling school.
This code is displayed in all classrooms where the teacher will refer to it if an incident of bullying arises. During anti-bullying week, classes explore the rules of the Code through 6 lesson plans. These lessons clarify and promote each aspect our Code.
When bullying behaviour is observed or reported, each teacher will investigate and deal with any bullying that arises within her/his class. Where necessary, point 9 and 10 of the Code of Good behaviour will be used (Appendix I)
Where bullying occurs in the playground, the teacher on duty will investigate and speak with the children involved and record the incident. If a resolution cannot be found or if the incident is a repeat of continuation from a previous occasion the Deputy Principal will investigate. If the bullying behaviour continues, the child will be suspended from playtime for one week. Point ‘10’ of the Code of Good Behaviour will be resorted to where necessary. The Príomh Oide will be advised of all allegations of bullying.
Through investigating incidents of bullying, we have discovered that occasionally such incidents are part of a larger conflict – involving adults or children outside our school. Such cases present a problem for us as the conflict may not have originated in the school. We cannot hope to resolve such conflicts, but we will do our best to protect the children while in our care.
Parents/guardians who are concerned about their child in relation to bullying should meet the class teacher, H.S.C.L. Co-ordinator or Príomh Oide. Given that such meetings may need some time, parents are asked to arrange for a suitable time.
Parents who feel that bullying incidents have not been adequately dealt with should contact the Príomh Oide.
If their grievance has not in their opinion been dealt with by the Príomh Oide, parents should then contact the Chairperson of the Board of Management.
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