Anti-Bullying at Garstang Community Academy
Welcome to Our Anti-Bullying Page
At Garstang Community Academy we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all of our students. Bullying in any form, whether it be physical; verbal; social; or online, is not tolerated. We believe that every student deserves respect, kindness, and the opportunity to learn and grow in a positive space.
What is Bullying?
The repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or group by another person or group, where the relationship involves an imbalance of power. Bullying can be physical, verbal or psychological. It can happen face-to-face or online.
- Physical Bullying: Hitting, kicking, pushing, or damaging property.
- Verbal Bullying: Name-calling, teasing, spreading rumours, or making hurtful comments.
- Social Bullying: Excluding someone from groups, spreading gossip, or embarrassing someone in public.
- Cyberbullying: Using digital platforms (social media, texting, or online games) to threaten, insult, or manipulate others.
Bullying Is Never Okay
Bullying can harm both the victim and the person who is bullying others. It is important to recognise that bullying can affect students' mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
How to Recognise Bullying
Students, parents/carers, and teachers can help recognise bullying early. Look out for signs like:
- Changes in behaviour or mood (anxiety, depression, withdrawal)
- Unexplained injuries or damaged belongings
- Avoiding school or particular social activities
- Sudden loss of friends or difficulty making new ones
- Low self-esteem or reluctance to participate in class
What to Do If You Are Being Bullied
If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, it is important to take action. Here are steps to help:
- Tell Someone: Speak to a trusted adult like a teacher, counsellor, or parent/carer.
- Document the Incident: Write down what happened, when, and where. Keep a record of any messages or posts related to cyberbullying.
- Stay Calm and Stand Tall: When confronted by a bully, try to remain calm and confident. Don’t retaliate with violence or hurtful words.
- Seek Support: Don’t face bullying alone. Talk to your friends and others who can offer emotional support.
How We Address Bullying at Garstang Community Academy
At Garstang Community Academy, we take bullying seriously. Our approach includes:
- Prevention Programs: We organise lessons, activities, and assemblies that promote kindness, respect, and anti-bullying behaviours.
- Clear Reporting Procedures: Bullying can be reported through our online form, via ineedtotalk@garstang.fcat.org.uk, anonymously via our Student Voice box, which is located in reception, or by speaking with your identified trusted adult
- Consequences for Bullying: Students who engage in bullying type behaviours will face appropriate consequences. We also work to support students in changing harmful behaviours.
- Support for Victims: Our school provides counselling, peer support, and follows a restorative approach to help victims of bullying feel safe and supported.
Resources for Students and Parents
Here are some additional resources to help you learn more about bullying prevention and support:
Get Involved: Be a Buddy, Not a Bully!
Our school community thrives when everyone is treated with respect and kindness. We encourage students, teachers, and parents/carers to be proactive in promoting positive behaviours and standing up against bullying.
- Start a Kindness Campaign: Take part in school-wide initiatives to spread kindness and reduce bullying.
- Report Bullying: If you see bullying happening, report it! Your actions can help stop it.
- Be a Role Model: Show respect, empathy, and inclusion in your actions every day.
Contact Us
If you or your child needs support regarding bullying, please reach out to us via:
- Online Form (Parents/Carers and Students)
- ineedtotalk@garstang.fcat.org.uk (Students)
- Student Voice Box, located at Reception (Students)
- Identified Trusted Adult (Students)
We’re All in This Together
Together, we can create a safer, more supportive environment where every student feels valued. Thank you for being part of our commitment to ending bullying and promoting kindness at Garstang Community Academy.