Bullying may be defined as deliberate and repeated, hurtful behaviour, whether physical or psychological, where it is difficult for the victim to defend themselves. Naturally it is not tolerated.
Racism and Sexism are two specific forms of prejudice which manifest themselves in bullying – a conscious effort to hurt, threaten or frighten somebody. Our aim is for all students to gain respect for the worth of all individuals and much of our extension/PSHE programme and tutorial time is devoted to fostering this outlook.
The symptoms of any form of bullying in College are that children may be:
Frightened of walking to or from College
Unwilling to go to College
Have personal possessions damaged
Become withdrawn in College
Become distressed in College
“Lose” personal possessions
ask for money (to pay the bully)
refuse to say what is wrong
Students are often wary, for many reasons, of admitting to being bullied in any way – often more so if bullying is verbal rather than physical. PTs and class tutors will try to create an atmosphere of trust in which any untoward incidents can be raised without fear of reprisal. All staff must be aware of the potentially fearful effects of unchecked bullying and be ready to talk to students or refer concerns to other appropriate staff. Students who wish to speak in confidence must always be given the opportunity to do so. Although Personal Tutors must be at the forefront of any action relating to prejudice or bullying in their group, students may well seek help from other staff whom they have a particularly good relationship. This should not be discouraged so long as the Personal Tutor is kept fully informed. Senior staff must always be alerted to the possibility of bullying. The College will not fight shy of contacting parents if this seems to be in a student’s best interest, though, where possible, confidentiality will be maintained.
GENERAL POLICY
Bullying is not tolerated. Staff and students must report any incidents.
REPORTED INCIDENTS
The procedure for investigating allegations of bullying is identical to that for investigating any serious incident of ill discipline.
Evidence will be gathered by the Principal or one of his/her appointed deputies from all parties concerned and notes taken.
On the basis of this evidence, the Principal or a deputy will judge whether bullying has occurred.
If the case is judged severe, eg there has been severe physical or verbal abuse, the guilty student will be excluded.
If the case is not severe, the student may be warned or suspended. In both cases, parents will be informed and in the latter case invited for an interview prior to readmission. In general the school adheres to a three strikes and out policy.
Ashbourne is a small and happy College with a very good staff/student ratio. We should not, however, allow this to blind us to the fact that incidents of bullying do take place in all colleges and that they always require immediate, firm yet sympathetic action.
