Bullying is that behaviour which is repeated over time by an individual or a group of individuals and which is intentionally hurtful in a direct manner against a person who has difficulty defending her/himself.

Designated Member of Staff (Key Contact Person):

Ms R. Borg Saliba (HoS)

Objectives

The objectives of this policy are:

• to provide a safe and secure environment for all learners;
• to protect learners and all stakeholders;
• to prevent and stop bullying behaviour;
• to promote value-based education;
• to encourage parents to take a more active role.

Reporting Procedure

 Student to student bullying

• Either in class, on the school premises or even on outings, all members of staff are to verbally intervene immediately to stop any bullying;
• When a student reports a bullying incident, members of staff need to listen carefully and in a non-judgemental manner;
  • Speak to the perpetrator (separately from the reporting student);
  • Speak to witnesses for further clarification;
  • Inform designated member of staff about incident so that it can be noted in the Incident Report Book. The incident is investigated and a decision is made on whether it was a conflict or a case of bullying. Proceed accordingly;
  • Discuss with the designated member of staff who is going to address the issue. In cases where the designated member of staff approaches an entity to address the issue – the Nurture Class, the Counsellors and Guidance teachers and the College Master of Discipline (in that order) this is done verbally and/or in writing.
  • If the case is still unresolved, the entity involved is expected to report back to the designated member of staff who in turn refers case to the Anti-Bullying Service (online referral in writing).
  • In such cases, the designated member of staff is to inform parents of both parties verbally, and, if needs be, by means of a letter.

If the parents are making the referral about the bullying incident, it must immediately be reported to the Head of School or designated member of staff, and then follow the guidelines above.

Cyber Bullying

• Inform SMT members, who in turn inform the parents of the students involved;
• SMT members keep record of the meetings with the parents and any decisions made;
• SMT members advise parents to file a police report (this needs to be included in the incident report log book);
• Should SMT still have concerns about the student/s’ safety they are to inform APPOGG.

Adult to Student Bullying:

• Any form of adult to student bullying is considered as child abuse;
• Head of School needs to be informed immediately;
• Head of School is obligated to inform Director of Student Services, in writing and copy College Principal. Child Safety Services are also included in such cases;
• The Director of Student Services will set up a board to investigate the case;
• Outcome will be forwarded to the Director General for the Education Services;
• If allegations are unfounded, the Director General will dispose of all collected data;
• If allegations are sustained, the Director General is to proceed according to the established regulations and legislations.

Student to Adult Bullying:

• This is dealt with at SMT level;
• Further advice is to be sought from the Head of College Network, who in turn refers to the Director of the Students Services Department.

Prevention Programme

The PSCD Teachers and the Nurture Team hold regular sessions regarding positive behaviour and anti-bullying.  The school regularly holds meetings with the College Anti-Bullying Team so as to discuss concerns and preventive measures.

Parents are encouraged to speak to the school administration should they see changes in their child.