St Gabriel's National School

Anti-Bullying Policy

We can stop the bulling together.
St. Gabriel's National School: Parents and teachers working together.

What is bullying?

• One person trying to control another.
• It causes pain and hurt.
• It is regular and happens over time.
• It can be verbal or physical.
• It is planned.

Types of bullying

• Dirty looks
• Damage to property
• Leaving someone out of a game
• Name calling, slagging
• Hitting, punching, pushing
• Making fun of someone

*Remember it is not a once off incident. Bullying happens over time.


What are the effects of bullying?

• Fear of school
• Fear of going out to play
• Change of behaviour
• Lack of interest
• No confidence
• Sad, depressed

What are the signs?

• Child having nightmares.
• Poor school attendance.
• Slow to say what is troubling him/her.
• Loss of concentration.

What can I do to help my child who is being bullied?

• Encourage them to tell parent/teacher.
• Believe them.
• Help them to say "no".
• Keep calm.
• Try not to discuss it in front of them.
• Make an appointment with the teacher.

How do I approach the school?

• Write a note to the teacher to make an appointment.
• Ring the school to make an appointment.

What happens at school?

• Incident book: Teacher records bullying behaviour.
• Teacher keeps a record of any complaints.
• Parent is informed if necessary.
• Principal is informed and serious incidences are investigated.
• The school's code of discipline is used.

Remember to listen and talk to your child.



Procedure for dealing with misbehaviour

• Reasoning/talking to the pupil.
• Advice on how to behave.
• Being left out of treats/rewards.
• Staying in during a break.
• Receiving extra homework/schoolwork.
• Suspension.

What is happening in the school to prevent bullying?
Raising awareness through:

• Bullying Awareness Week (October?????)
• A leaflet for parents.
• Each class putting together a class charter every September.
• Teaching the "Walk Tall" and "Stay Safe" programmes.
• Rewarding good behaviour with prizes and certificates.
• Regular talks from the local Gardaí.

Useful address and phone numbers

St. Gabriel's N. S., Cowper Street, Dublin 7. Tel: 01-8348583

Parentline Tel: 1850 929 277

Childline Tel: 1800 666 666

Bridewell Garda Station Tel: 01-6668200

Barnados Tel: 01-4530355
(helping parents understand pressure)

An Síol Tel: 01-6772170
(Counselling service, Manor Street)

Vincent de Paul.