Reporting
Reporting an instance of bullying should be easy. There should be a clear transparent process for how to report and what happens next.
In reward schools, reporting is:
Accessible: There is clear information for children and families on how to report incidents of bullying. Information is shared in assemblies, in class and on websites and posters to raise awareness. Many reward schools use an online form for reporting linked to a QR code to help make this easy to access. This reporting feature is also available for parents and carers. Pupils have trusted people they can report to, including teachers, support staff and pupil ambassadors.
Young people are aware of how they can approach staff discreetly with any concerns. We have QR codes displayed in the toilets which young people can use to anonymously report or seek support.
We also have a bully button on our website for the same thing. Parents and carers may also use this.
Safe: When an incident or concern is reported, the safety of those involved is a priority.
Pupils can be confident that reporting won’t negatively impact their safety. Being able to report anonymously can help children and young people feel more secure. School staff act quickly to ensure pupils are safe and supported. An early response reduces the negative impact on those experiencing bullying.
Our pupils are more encouraged to disclose concerns about bullying behaviours and we have then been able to support our young people to feel safer and take back control of their agency through more targeted awareness of where to go for support, how to report concerns, and strategies to support their wellbeing.
Consistent: The process of reporting is consistent across the school. There is a clear process of what should happen once a report is made and everyone in the school community is clear on their role and what they can expect.
We have worked hard with all stakeholders to develop a matrix so that everyone knows what they can do if they experience or witness bullying behaviour.
This has been developed with and for pupils, families, staff and the Senior Leadership Team so that there is a clear process should concerns arise.
