What is Bullying?
Bullying is any behaviour by an individual or group, repeated over time, that intentionally hurts another individual or group, either physically or emotionally. Our complete Anti-Bullying Policy can be found on the Policies and Documentation page.
Our Approach to Bullying
At Mayflower High School, every student has the right to attend lessons and participate in activities without fear of bullying or harassment. We promote tolerance and respect for all and take a proactive stance on anti-bullying through a variety of measures, including:
Our Approach to Bullying
At Mayflower High School, every student has the right to attend lessons and participate in activities without fear of bullying or harassment. We promote tolerance and respect for all and take a proactive stance on anti-bullying through a variety of measures, including:
Mayflower High School’s Commitment
Mayflower High School will:
- Take all reports of bullying seriously, even if there is no immediate evidence.
- Distinguish bullying from other poor behaviours, addressing both appropriately.
- Record all instances of bullying or suspected bullying.
- Act swiftly, firmly, and fairly to resolve concerns.
- Provide support and advice to victims through school staff or external agencies where necessary.
- Facilitate restorative meetings between victims and perpetrators, if suitable.
- Inform and update parents of all parties involved.
- Sanction bullying behaviours in line with the Behaviour for Learning Policy.
- Offer further support for both perpetrators and victims.
- Set clear behavioural expectations moving forward.
Advice for Parents
- Be observant for unusual behaviours, such as reluctance to attend school.
- Reassure your child that the bullying is not their fault.
- Establish the facts and understand what your child wants to happen next.
- Encourage your child to report bullying to the school.
- Inform the school promptly if you suspect bullying; contact the Year Manager.
- Encourage confidence-building activities.
- Assist the school in implementing strategies to address bullying.
- Avoid contacting other parents or students directly, as this may exacerbate the issue.
- Do not post about incidents on social media; report online bullying to the platform instead.
If Your Child Has Been Accused of Bullying
We value the partnership between home and school in addressing concerns. It can be distressing to learn your child has been involved in bullying. As parents, you play a vital role in helping them recognise the harm caused and change their behaviour.
- Help your child understand what constitutes bullying and why it is wrong.
- Encourage open communication so they feel safe discussing worries.
- Teach them to resist peer pressure and avoid retaliatory bullying.
- Monitor and guide their use of social media.
- Model respectful behaviour for your child to emulate.
Together, we can create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students.