Abusive Behaviour Policy and Procedure

 Introduction

All children and young people have the right to go about their daily lives without the fear of being threatened, assaulted or harassed. No one should underestimate the impact that bullying can have on a person’s life. It can cause high levels of distress, affecting young people’s wellbeing, behaviour, academic and social development right through into adulthood. At KCO, we are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our pupils so they can learn in a relaxed and secure atmosphere free from oppression and abuse. Bullying is an anti-social behaviour and affects everyone. All types of bullying are unacceptable at our school and will not be tolerated. All pupils should feel able to tell and when bullying behaviour is brought to our attention, prompt and effective action will be taken. This means that anyone who is aware of any type of bullying that is taking place is expected to tell a member of staff immediately.


What Is Bullying?

Bullying generally takes one of several forms:

  • Indirect: being unfriendly (by saying bad things to, or about them), spreading rumours, excluding, tormenting (e.g. hiding bags or books), not respecting different cultures, religions or beliefs
  • Physical: pushing, kicking, hitting, punching, slapping or any form of violence • Verbal: name-calling, teasing, threats, sarcasm
  • Cyber: All areas of internet misuse, such as nasty and/or threatening emails, misuse of blogs, gaming websites, internet chat rooms and instant messaging; Mobile threats by text messaging & calls; Misuse of associated technology , i.e. camera and video facilities

Forms of abuse can include:

  • Racial bullying
  • Homophobic bullying
  • Bullying based on disability, ability, gender, appearance or circumstance Before you speak or write a post on social media