Following the publication of the Kids Life and Times Survey the Commissioner said she was worried at the level of bullying reported in the survey, but said help was at hand for concerned pupils.
“I was very encouraged with the survey results showing that many of the children knew were to go within school to seek help,” she said.
“However, with a third of pupils reporting that they had experienced bullying, and 22% reporting physical bullying, it is an area that must see efforts stepped up to protect all pupils.
“I hope schools will involve pupils in developing anti-bullying policies, as this means that the children can work with staff to help identify the ways best suited to their own school’s experiences.
“I would also encourage principals and teachers to look at the anti-bullying guide that is available on my website.”
The Commissioner’s guide on bullying includes 10 guidelines to support schools in preventing and dealing with bullying.
The guidelines are available to download here:
MEDIA ENQUIRIES For more information please contact Andrew McGall, Communication Officer at NICCY on 028 9031 1616 or communications@niccy.org