At Meopham School we define bullying as a behaviour that is:

• Repeated;
• Intended to hurt someone either physically or emotionally;
• Often aimed at certain groups, for example, race, religion, gender or sexual orientation.

We regularly remind students of the necessity to report bullying of any kind to an adult or through any of the numerous ways listed below.  Students are also taught the distinction between bullying and conflict between friendship groups.
We employ a range of tried and tested anti-bullying strategies including:

Safetext – Posters are displayed around the school with a phone number where students are able to report bullying if they do not have the confidence in speaking to someone face to face. Please be aware that this number is available for students to use before and after school during term time. It will not be monitored during the school holidays. SAFETEXT 07391377270

Worry Box – During the school day, if students need support or would like to raise a concern, they are able to use the worry box located outside the safeguarding office.

Pastoral Support Managers – our dedicated team of Pastoral Support Managers are there to listen, advise and act on any reports of bullying swiftly, liaising with parents of those bullying others and those feeling bullied.

Break and Lunchtime supervision – staff in high visibility jackets are on duty during break and lunchtimes to deal with any issues that are reported to them. 

Student views sought in developing school policies – the voice of the students is paramount if we are to develop strategies to combat things they are experiencing. 

Assemblies – We deliver assemblies on topics which are relevant to our students. These include a focus on kindness, and how to manage friendship issues. We encourage students to have the courage to speak up and report concerns. 

Restorative Justice - We encourage students to discuss issues they may have with each other, and to learn how to resolve situations through our restorative justice programme.

We firmly believe that the systems that are in place are robust and effective, however all rely on the school being informed of a situation occurring. Students in all instances are encouraged to tell someone if they are experiencing bullying.