New data from the Department of Education unveils a concerning reality – 40% of school pupils report experiencing bullying within the past year.
Adding to this, recent figures from the ONS estimate that around 764,000 children across England and Wales have encountered various forms of online bullying. Addressing this pervasive issue head-on, Lawn Manor Academy is at the forefront of a national initiative, leading a pioneering whole-school approach to curb bullying and foster a culture of respect.
As part of the United Against Bullying Plus (UAB+) pilot programme, Lawn Manor Academy stands as one of only 18 schools participating in England. This comprehensive programme takes a holistic approach, extending support to children prone to perpetrating bullying and those experiencing it, alongside their parents and carers. Spearheaded by the Anti-Bullying Alliance in partnership with Kidscape, the initiative includes tailored school support and additional staff training.
While the primary focus of the programme is on Year 8 pupils, its influence is set to permeate the entire school, creating a lasting impact. Deputy Headteacher Russell Langdown is at the forefront of implementing the programme at Lawn Manor Academy. He emphasises the school’s unwavering commitment to instilling a culture of absolute respect, encapsulated in their ‘I RESPECT’ umbrella – a pivotal facet of their ‘I LEARN’ school values.
Langdown acknowledges the external pressures, especially exacerbated by social media, impacting children both inside and outside of school. He underscores the importance of equipping students with conflict resolution skills to prevent issues from escalating, potentially leading them down risky paths. By participating in the programme, the school gains the expertise of a dedicated anti-bullying specialist for two years, offering tailored support and anti-bullying training courses for staff.
One distinctive aspect of the programme that Lawn Manor Academy values is its comprehensive approach. The initiative extends support to everyone affected by bullying, including those identified as potential perpetrators, aiming to intervene before the cycle begins. Furthermore, parents and carers receive guidance, empowering them to collaborate with the school in addressing bullying issues.
Affiliated with the Ascend Learning Trust, Lawn Manor Academy is dedicated to creating a safe, respectful environment for its students. To learn more about their initiatives and values, visit www.lawnmanor.org.
