News

Anti-Bullying Week 2022 is coordinated in England and Wales by the Anti-Bullying Alliance. It will take place from 14 to 18 November 2022 and has the theme Reach Out. The week will kick off with Odd Socks Day on Monday 14th November, where adults and children wear odd socks to celebrate what makes us all unique. Your class teacher will send on information about this and how you can donate to the ABA.

The children will also all take part in drama workshops later in the week with the drama company Perform. The workshops are designed to raise awareness of bullying and give children a range of techniques they can use if they find themselves being bullied. These workshops will:

• Simulate situations to demonstrate what bullying is

• Show how body language can help us appear more confident

• Use improvisation and role-play to give children tips on standing up to bullying

The theme of Reach Out came about following consultation with teachers and pupils by the Anti-Bullying Alliance which coordinates Anti-Bullying Week every year in England and Wales. Teachers and children wanted a theme that empowered them to do something positive to counter the harm and hurt that bullying causes.

It promises to be an informative and action packed week - we look forward to sharing our understanding and work with you!

Anti-Bullying Alliance Call to Action:

• Bullying affects millions of lives and can leave us feeling hopeless. But is doesn't have to be this way. If we challenge it, we can change it. And it starts by reaching out.

• Whether it is at school, home, in the community or online, let's reach out and show each other the support we need. Reach out to someone you trust if you need to talk. Reach out to someone you know is being bullied. Reach out and consider a new approach.

• It does not stop with young people. From teachers to parents and influencers to politicians, we all have a responsibility to help each other reach out. Together, let's be the change we want to see. Reflect on our own behaviour, set positive examples and create kinder communities.