Children and young people learn lessons on the impact of bullying

This year’s theme, ‘Bullying – The Power of One’, encourages pupils to stand together against bullying, not just during Anti-Bullying week 10-14 November but every day.   

Schools will promote the importance of respect and kindness, asking pupils to think about what those words mean to them and how their actions and behaviour can demonstrate those qualities. Teachers will have access to two new professional learning resources designed to help those working in education and partners to better understand and respond to bullying,; hate crime and prejudice-based behaviours. 

The resources have been developed in partnership with YouthLink Scotland, respectme (Scotland’s anti-bullying service), the Scottish Government’s Hate Crime Strategic Partnership Group, and Education Scotland. 

Children will learn about the impact of hate crimes and racist bullying, as well as how prejudice, language, and behaviour can hurt people and communities. They will participate in a variety of activities that teach respect, empathy, and inclusivity. As part of Anti-Bullying Week, young people and parents are encouraged to learn about the signs, risks, and accessible resources.  

Councillor Clare Steel, Convener of Educational Services, said: “It is vitally important that every child is raised in an environment that is safe, supportive, and free from the fear of bullying. As a Council we are committed to tackling bullying and promote safe and inclusive schools for our children to learn in. During Anti Bullying week, children and adults will be encouraged to put respect and kindness at the forefront of all of their actions, not just within school but also in our communities.”  

Councillor John Millar, Vice Convener of Educational Services, said: “Bullying is unacceptable regardless of the location but especially in our schools. We want a culture of zero tolerance within our schools and teach children from a very young age that bullying in-person and online is wrong, so we can provide schools where every child feels safe, happy, and ready to learn.”