Bullying in schools

All schools are required by law to have a written anti-bullying policy and effective procedures in place.

Pupils and/or parents should discuss any bullying with the school to see what strategies can be put in place to stop it happening. The school may decide to make a referral to another agency.

As a parent you should request a copy of the policy if your child is being bullied so you are aware of the school’s procedures.

Schools can only help if they know what is happening.

You can find advice on what to do about bullying at school and reporting bullying on the GOV.UK website.

Organisations that provide support and advice if you’re worried about bullying are listed below:

Responsibilities

Headteachers are responsible for

  • maintaining acceptable standards of discipline and behaviour in schools
  • regulating the conduct of their pupils
  • acting in accordance with policies written by the governing body

    Schools have the power to impose a range of sanctions against pupils who are involved in bullying incidents outside of school.  

    Governors are responsible for:

    • formulating a whole school discipline policy, producing an effective complaints procedure
    • making sure that the National Curriculum is delivered; this includes personal and social education
    • formulating an anti-bullying policy based on national and local guidance, procedures being in place to ensure that risks of harm to children’s welfare are minimised
    • ensuring that all appropriate action is taken to address concerns about the welfare of a child.

      Schools have a duty to work with other agencies to safeguard and promote the well being of pupils.

      Local authorities are responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children under s.175 Education Act 2002. This means that LAs have a monitoring role to ensure that an anti-bullying policy is in place and that effective procedures, based on national and local guidance, are followed.