School violence, particularly bullying, is one of the issues that children all over the world may face. This has consequences for a child’s emotional, physical, and academic achievement as well as social composite. At Maple Leaf Kingsley International School, we have zero tolerance for bullying and strive to provide the necessary environment to prohibit bullying at the root, while supporting the affected students.
But, what is the reason behind bullying, and what can we do about it? Now, let’s take a closer look at how Kingsley implements the idea of being proactive about eliminating bullying.
It is unfortunate but true that bullying has become rampant in many schools and other institutions. It comes in all forms; physical, verbal, social, and cyber bullying. All types can have severe consequences for a child’s development and health. Knowing the symptoms and the consequences is very important for early detection and mitigation.
At Kingsley, our core values and mission revolve around creating a safe schooling environment. We invest heavily in our teachers and facilities to provide a safe space for nurturing students. Our goal is to go beyond traditional education and instil good values that help students reach their full potential. This commitment includes a robust anti-bullying policy and continuous efforts to foster respect and kindness.
Laying the right foundations during preschool is essential. Our early childhood education incorporates the Personal, Social & Health Education (PSHE) programme, which emphasise the importance of respect and kindness from a young age.
The PSHE programme focuses on 5 Core Values, Anti-Bullying, and Financial Education. Children learn to manage themselves, their health, relationships and money while exploring what it means to be a citizen of the world and country.
By building on these foundations through the Cambridge Curriculum, we ensure that students carry these values throughout their academic journey. Our teachers play a pivotal role in early intervention, addressing signs of bullying before they escalate.
Children who experience bullying often suffer from anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These mental health issues can persist into adulthood, affecting their long-term well-being. In extreme cases, bullying can lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviours. By addressing bullying proactively, we help reduce the risk of such severe consequences and promote a healthier mental state for our students.
Bullying doesn’t just affect mental health; it can also result in physical injuries and stress-related symptoms like headaches, sleep disturbances, and stomach issues. Chronic stress from being bullied can weaken a child’s immune system, making them more susceptible to illnesses. At Kingsley, we prioritise the physical health of our students by creating a safe and supportive environment where bullying is not tolerated.
Bullying can significantly impact a child’s academic performance. Victims often avoid school, have trouble concentrating, and perform poorly on assignments and tests. By ensuring a bully-free school, we help our students focus better and achieve their academic potential. A safe and supportive environment is essential for fostering a love of learning and academic success.
Bullying undermines the social fabric of a school community, creating an environment of fear and hostility. Addressing bullying helps build trust and cooperation among students, fostering a positive social environment where they can develop healthy relationships. At Kingsley International School, we prioritise the social development of our students, ensuring they grow up to be respectful and compassionate individuals.
Transparent communication with parents is a cornerstone of our approach at Kingsley. Parents play a vital role in managing bullying by supporting their children, advocating for effective school policies, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion at home and in the community. By working together, we can create a healthier, more productive, and harmonious environment for our children.
At Kingsley, we embed the value of respect in everything we do. We acknowledge that achieving a bully-free environment is challenging, but we are consistent in our efforts to uphold our values and protect our students. Our teachers invest in the students, impart knowledge, and instil good values. We are proud to know that our students leave us with a good heart and head, ready to make a positive impact wherever they go.
Read this blog to learn more about school bullying, how to identify it, and how early education can help prevent it.
