The Government has made tackling bullying in schools a key priority and the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) has made clear that no form of bullying should be tolerated.  Bullying in our schools should be taken very seriously; it is not a normal part of growing up and it can ruin lives.  It is compulsory for schools to have measures in place to encourage good behaviour and respect for others on the part of pupils, and to prevent all forms of bullying.

To support schools, in September 2007 the DCSF has published Safe to Learn: embedding anti-bullying work in schools.  You can view this guidance on Teachernet by clicking here: http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/wholeschool/behaviour/tacklingbullying/safetolearn

Alternatively, click here to download a copy of Safe to Learn Overview: http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/_doc/11907/Summary%20-%20Safe%20to%20Learn.pdf

Click here to download a copy of Safe to Learn Guidance and Resources: http://www.teachernet.gov.uk/_doc/11908/SAFE%20TO%20LEARN.pdf

The Safe to Learn guidance is in addition to the existing guidance on Tackling bullying related to race, religion and culture published in 2006.  This document is designed for schools to dip in and out as appropriate for them and offers discussion topics and activities to stimulate debate and spark activity involving everone in the school community.  Click HERE to view a copy.

'A racist incident is an incident which is perceived to be racist by the victim or any other person (McPherson Report, 1999)'

Under the Race Relations (Ammendment) Act 2000 schools have a general statutory duty requires all educational establishments to take proactive steps to tackle racial discrimination and promote equality of opportunity and good race relations.  As part of the duty, schools are required to record and report  all racist incidents.  Cumbria Children's Services has now introduced an electronic system to support schools in doing this.  Racist Incidents should be reported immediately when they happen via the electronic system.  The Racist Incidents Monitoring form is accessible via the Online Forms in the Portal: http://www.portal1.cumbria.gov.uk/Schools/Portal/Online%20Forms

Once completed the RIM must be sent to Elizabeth Riddick elizabeth.riddick@cumbriacc.gov.uk

Click here for the Guidance for Schools on Reporting Racist Incidents