Anti-Bullying

Anti bullying strategy statement

At Esher Church School, we believe all children have the right to feel safe, respected and valued. We are proud that bullying at Esher Church School is extremely rare. However, we recognise that bullying can happen anywhere, and we remain vigilant in ensuring it has no place within our school community.

Bullying in any form is unacceptable and will always be taken seriously. We are committed to listening, investigating and responding to any concerns raised by children, parents or staff.

In today’s world, bullying can take many forms, including face-to-face, online and through emerging technologies. We know that the impact can be significant, which is why we work proactively to create a culture where everyone feels that they belong.

Our Commitment

We believe the most effective anti-bullying strategy is creating a strong culture of belonging underpinned by our school vision of ‘Love one Another’ John 13:34

We celebrate our value of community and  being part of a diverse school community where every individual is valued and respected. Through positive relationships, clear expectations and explicit teaching, we help children understand how to treat others with kindness, respect and compassion. That everyone matters.

Our aim is not simply to prevent bullying but to create a community where every child knows:

You belong.
You are valued.
You are loved.

How we define Bullying

At Esher Church School, bullying is defined as:

The repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or group by another person or group where there is an imbalance of power.

Bullying is usually:

  • Deliberately hurtful.
  • Repeated over time.
  • Difficult for the person experiencing it to stop or defend themselves against.

We recognise that:

  • Friendship difficulties occur.
  • Children may occasionally fall out.
  • One-off incidents of unkind behaviour happen.

Whilst these situations are taken seriously and addressed appropriately, they are not necessarily bullying unless the behaviour is repeated, intentional and involves an imbalance of power.

How We Prevent Bullying

We prevent bullying through:

  • Living out our Christian vision and values every day.
  • Collective Worship, where children explore kindness, friendship, courage, justice, forgiveness and respect.
  • Teaching our school rules: Ready, Respectful, Safe.
  • Our SCARF and Personal Development curriculum.
  • Explicit teaching about healthy relationships, diversity, equality and online safety.
  • Strong relationships between children, staff and families.
  • Zones of Regulation and emotional wellbeing support.
  • Positive recognition through House Points, Golden Tickets, certificates and rewards.
  • Creating a culture where children are encouraged to speak up when something is wrong.
  • Taking part in celebrations of diversity and anti bullying like Anti Bullying week.

Working Together

Anti-bullying work at Esher Church School is led by:

Carol Skingle
Behaviour and Culture Lead

Claire Simpson
Inclusion Lead

Both can be contacted through the school office on: 01372 463139 or office@esherchurchschool.org.uk

By working together with pupils, families, staff and governors, we strive to create a safe, caring and inclusive community where every child can flourish and live out our vision of “Love One Another.”

Bullying is the repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or group by another person or group, where the relationship involves an imbalance of power. It can happen face to face or online.

ANTI-BULLYING ALLIANCE

Definition of bullying

Anti Bullying week November 2027

We are proud to take part in this initiative with may other schools across the country.  Information on this event will follow after half term.

This Anti-Bullying Week, we are encouraging everyone to start the conversation about bullying. We are calling on children and young people to speak up and share their experiences, and on adults to listen, support, and act.

How can you start the conversation with your child?   Press here for the parent/Carer information pack