Anti-Bullying Programme Implemented in Primary Schools

Primary educational institutions in Devon are participating in an initiative aimed at combating bullying. The University of Exeter has been spearheading the research in Devon concerning the KiVa programme, which highlights the significance of bystanders’ involvement in stopping bullying. This forms part of a countrywide programme directed by the University of Bangor, encompassing over 100 primary schools across the nation and involving 11,000 pupils. Following the programme, organisers stated that schools observed increased empathy among children towards victims and a decrease in peer-related conflicts. Dr Rachel Hayes, a senior research fellow at the University of Exeter, commented: “Thinking back to our own childhoods many of us will identify with that child who was always bullied. “As adults we’ve all seen the long-lasting impact that childhood bullying can leave, and medical research tells us that children who were bullied are more likely to suffer with mental health problems as adults. “This is why I was so pleased to have led the Devon site in this trial and even more delighted our results have confirmed the data seen in other countries.” Willand School, located in Devon, is among the participants in the programme. Amy Leather, the deputy head, remarked: “Bullying of course happens in all schools,” she added, “It impacts on children not only during their time in school but also at other times too. “So it might cause anxiety, it might cause depression for example, it might cause social exclusion. “So anything that we can do as a school to empower our children to keep them safe and happy we would always want to do.” Prof Judy Hutchings, associated with the Centre for Evidence Based Early Intervention at Bangor University, stated: “Bullying in childhood is one of the biggest risk factors for later mental health problems in childhood and adolescence. “Unfortunately, it is widespread in UK schools and while all schools are required to have a bullying policy, it’s rarely evidence based. “The KiVa whole school approach has had really significant effects on bullying in other countries because it focuses on everyone’s behaviour, and removes the social rewards usually gained by the perpetrators.” For updates, follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story submissions can be sent to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.