Internet safety and looking out for your friends is key as schools in Merton celebrate National Anti-Bullying week.
Cyber-bullying is the hot topic this year with the new rise of social media and techno savvy children, their interaction continues beyond the playground. Nationally, the week takes place 16-20 November but active schools have been hosting events and workshops throughout the whole year.
Cricket Green focused their activities on making friends, helping friends and what to do if there is a problem. The children proved they had the Xfactor with key stage one and two writing and performing their own friendship songs to the school. Friendship quilts and DVDs were made, while a ‘Big Brother’ game highlighted the importance of teamwork.
Children at Abbotsbury, Joseph Hood and West Wimbledon Primary have visits from theatre companies for dramatic and interactive assemblies and performances of ‘Not such an ugly duckling’ and ‘Cyber Attacks'”.
Cyber hero posters and poetry competitions engaged all at William Morris and the school also held discussions with the older children about internet safety.
Other schools in the borough are involved in National Anti-Bullying week and have encouraged students to take part in the ‘wear it blue’ mufti day, allowing children to stand up and be counted in the fight against bullying.
Pupils at Rutlish School, Harris Academy and St Mark’s Academy have signed up to the SHARP (School Help, Advice, Reporting System) method of combating the bullies. Dedicated webpages link directly to a schools liaison that the children know and trust. Any incidents from bullying to concerns over weapons can be logged on the site, allowing students to report anonymously and in confidence.
Cabinet Member for children’s services Debbie Shears said “We are committed to working with specialist organisations to stamp out bullying in all of our classrooms in Merton. Providing children with the skills to empower themselves and others is a great way of doing this. All children should feel safe and happy at school and it is brilliant to see such a wide range of events going on to support anti-bullying week.”
Notes to editors:
· The sharp website can be found at http://www.thesharpsystem.com and is advertised internally by participating schools
· Photo opportunities are available
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Press Contact:
Leoni Munslow
Communications Assistant
London Borough of Merton
020 8545 4654