RGS Staff Handbook

Reigate Grammar School

Staff Handbook

Home > Pastoral > Anti-bullying policy

A-Z Index Index of Policies Recent Changes New Staff
School Development Plan

Anti-bullying policy

Reigate Grammar School takes the issue of bullying very seriously. It is one factor that can completely ruin a child's experience of school life, and that can have serious consequences on both academic performance and social development. All staff and pupils are expected to be vigilant in regard to bullying and to report it to a Tutor, Head of Section/Year or Deputy Head as the situation warrants. All members of the school community are enjoined to reject bullying, and are encouraged to speak up to someone in authority if they are aware it is taking place.

The school has adopted several features of the 'No Blame' approach to bullying, although it might be more correct in this school to term it 'No Immediate Punishment'. The principle is that stopping the pattern of bullying is more important in the first instance than meting out punishment. However, each situation is judged on its own merits, and punishment is an option, in particular where a pupil has re-offended.

The following clear statement of principles and practice is contained in the school rules, which are issued to all pupils and parents:

Bullying is a form of anti-social behaviour towards a person and has no place in this School. Bullying can include any sort of physical or mental intimidation of a person by another or a group, which can cause distress or anxiety to the victim. Such behaviour is unacceptable from any member of the school community, as no person has the right to intimidate another.

Therefore:

No-one should have to suffer name-calling.
No-one should have to suffer physical violence.
No-one should feel victimised in any way.
No-one should suffer abusive e-mail or text messages.
It is everyone's responsibility to ensure that bullying is not tolerated.
If there is a problem, share it; tell a member of staff or a senior student.

Finally:
Everyone should act with courtesy and consideration at all times.

Any cases of bullying should be reported to a member of staff, prefect or peer supporter. Any failure to do so supports the bully and does not help the victim. All cases will be treated seriously. We will normally:
• Interview the victim
• Convene a meeting to include all those involved and bystanders
• Determine a plan of action to support the victim and stop the bullying
• Re-interview all those involved, with a senior member of staff, to monitor progress.