Conflict

In a conflict, both sides have equal power, but inappropriate and hurtful things may be said or done to each other. E.g. disagreements, arguments, confrontation, difference of opinion.

Bullying

• Actions or words that are intentionally hurtful, repeated often over a period of time and difficult for victim to defend themselves against.
• In a bullying relationship one side has more power than the other sides. In conflict, both sides have equal power and could both help to put an end to it.

“Bullying behaviour is the repeated, intentional, hurting of one person or a group of people, where there is an imbalance of power. It can happen face to face or online”. We believe that abusive behaviours are just that, not “banter”, “just having a laugh” or “part of growing up”

Anti-Bullying Alliance 2018

How to report bullying, discrimination and racism in school?

How students can report…

If a student is being bullied they are encouraged not to retaliate, but to tell someone they trust, a friend, parent or adult.  They are also encouraged to report bullying incidents in school by:

• Talking to any member of staff
• Talking to an Anti-Bullying Ambassador (ABA)
• Using the BEN email system allocated to their house group
• Using the House post box (this can be anonymous)
• Message on Edulink (anonymous)

How parents can support…

If you think your child is being bullied parents are encouraged to contact the school by:

• Emailing Tutor, Head of House or Assistant Head of House
• Calling Tutor, Head of House or Assistant Head of House

Is this a safeguarding concern?

If you feel there is a safeguarding concern and a young person is at risk of harm then please click here to refer to our safeguarding information.

Role of Anti-Bullying Ambassadors

• To refer using the BEN protocol should they witness or be told about an incident of potential bullying behaviour.
• Working alongside staff to create anti bullying policies and to create the school Anti Bullying Charter.
• To come alongside their peers, both those subject to bullying behaviours and the perpetrators, to promote the school values and to provide peer-led support.

• To raise the profile of BEN amongst the school community. This may include:
  • Delivering training to students and staff e.g. as part of assemblies and staff training.
  • Creating promotional materials including materials to be used in tutor times.
  • Organising anti-bullying events.
  • Using research tools such as questionnaires to ascertain student awareness and understanding.
  • Represent BEN at events such as parents’ evenings.