Schools - bullying and harassment policy

 

Bullying is behaviour where power is exerted and causes hurt to others.  It is likely to be deliberate and to happen more than once.

West Lothian Council promotes a culture where bullying is not acceptable.  We are committed to establishing a caring, learning community where all members are valued and everyone has a responsibility to promote respect, openness, honesty and understanding.   This policy links to Education and Cultural services 'Safe Environment at School' policy.

Copies of these policies can be found under 'Online Tools' on the right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click a question to see the answer.

My child is the victim of bullying at school. What can I do?

You should report the incident of bullying to your child's teacher or other member of staff or adult. Your child should also be encouraged to do so. The school will investigate and do all it can to minimise any further inappropriate behaviour recurring. This can include a range of strategies to suit the particular circumstances and you should make sure you are involved in any discussions. Remember that what the school is trying to do is to gather evidence which establishes that bullying has gone on and then to find a lasting solution that ensures your child is no longer bullied at school.

My child is the victim of racist bullying at school. What can I do?

You should report any incident to your child's teacher or other member of staff. Your child should also be encouraged to do so. It will be recorded as racist and investigated. You should ask for a meeting with the Headteacher and a plan should be agreed which indicates ways of minimising any recurrence. You should remember that what the school is trying to do is to gather evidence which establishes that bullying has gone on, and to find a lasting solution that ensures your child is no longer bullied or racially harassed.