Bullying tackled at New York Stadium showcase

Guests at the event, the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Alan and Sandra Buckley; are seen with representatives of the 15 schools who took part in the event, which was run by The Anti-Bullying Company and Rotherham School's Improvement Service. 171920

STUDENTS did their bit to help stamp out bullying with a showcase of films, dance routines and presentations to raise awarness of the issue.

An event at Rotherham's New York Stadium to mark National Anti-Bullying Week saw 100 children holding up cards reading ‘All Different, All Equal’, which is this year’s national theme.

Pupils were also encouraged to wear odd socks in support of the idea of everyone being different and being equal.

Rotherham anti-bullying educator Ann Foxley-Johnson said: “The pupils have worked so hard on their routines and the ‘All Different, All Equal’ message is a fantastic way to emphasise the individuality of children across Rotherham. “We want pupils to be inclusive of everyone, whatever their background or beliefs.

“And in our work we find the younger children often will embrace this, which is why it is best to get messages across when they are younger and are more willing to embrace difference.

“We need children to feel safe going into school and not intimidated and scared so that they can’t face going to school and this has a detrimental effect on their education.”

The Rotherham Anti-Bullying Company, which is part of Rotherham Borough Council’s school improvement service, visits schools to hold workshops for staff, pupils and parents, and passes on tips such as introducing anti-bullying buddy teams in the playground and restorative justice meetings between upset pupils.

Primary schools invited to the event on Monday included Anston Hillcrest, Bramley Sunnyside Juniors, Brinsworth Howarth, Canklow Woods, East Dene, Greasborough Primary School, Laughton Junior and Infants, Herringthorpe Juniors, Rawmarsh St Josephs, Rockingham Primary School, Rosehill Junior, Roughwood, Sitwell Infants, Thorpe Hesley, Thorogate Junior and Infant and Wales.