Child on Child

The Department of Education defines bullying as “Behaviour by an individual or group, usually repeated over a period of time, that intentionally hurts another individual or group either physically or emotionally”.

TFA does not tolerate bullying of any kind and no member of our school community should ever turn a blind eye to bullying. TFA’s non-tolerance approach to bullying stems from its view that every right carries a responsibility;

• I have the right to feel safe and protected and the responsibility to look out for others.
• I have the right to be myself and a responsibility to accept other people’s differences and boundaries.
• I have a right to get support and a responsibility to ask for it at the appropriate time.
• I have a right to be heard and a responsibility to listen to others

Staff at The Forest Academy are trained to ensure that they understand the importance of challenging inappropriate behaviours between children that are abusive in nature. Staff are clear that they should not downplay certain behaviours or dismiss them as ‘banter’ or ‘just having a laugh’.

Education to prevent bullying is provided to all TFA students, including through the following curriculum opportunities:

a.  Subject areas e.g. English, Drama, RE
b.  Personal Development sessions
c.  Assemblies e.g. National Anti-Bullying Week;
d.  Presentations from outside agencies and theatre groups;
e.  Offsite activities;
f.  Tutorial activities;
g.  Peer support.