Schools, early years and childcare

Bullying worries children and parents and can be very destructive. If you have concerns as a parent, here are some things you can do:

• For a primary school, first speak to the class teacher about any concerns. Ask for a special watch to be kept for a time to see whether your child is not being left out of games or bullied in any way.
• For a secondary school, send a note to the head of year explaining your concerns.
• If these things do not work, ask your child to keep a diary of what happens and then write a letter to the headteacher, asking for an appointment.
• If you have already made a complaint, ask for a description of what has been done so far. You may like to ask for a copy of the school's policy on bullying.
• If you are still not satisfied, write to the Chair of Governors of the school.
• If your child is upset and reluctant to attend school, you may wish to call Medway Council's Education Welfare Service, whose job is to ensure school attendance.

Try to stay calm, even when you are worried. It is better to give the school some time to try to put things right. A confrontation may not help your child. If you are told that your child is a bully, do not over-react. The school will need support from you to deal with the problem.

The Educational Psychology Service has produced a policy and guidelines on preventing and tackling bullying and harassment in school.

For further information, you may wish to telephone the contact numbers below or visit the web sites:

• Anti-Bullying Campaign - phone: 0207 378 1446
• Childline - phone: 0800 1111
• www.bullying.co.uk
• www.kidscape.org.uk
• www.dfes.gov.uk/bullying

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