Racist bullying in schools

A report by the Northern Ireland Centre for Ethnic Minorities (NICEM) has commented on the prevalence of racist bullying in schools. Racism and all forms of bullying can be very detrimental to the mental and physical health of the recipient. The report highlights that many pupils and parents do not know what action can be taken.

Every state school (i.e. not private) in Northern Ireland is required to have an anti-bullying strategy which must include racially-motivated bullying. The school has a legal duty to ensure the welfare of all the pupils it teaches. The nature of the bullying can be personal and face-to-face or it may be online or through mobile phones (‘cyber bullying’). Each is equally serious. It is important to note that whilst parents may be tempted to keep their child or children at home as a result of bullying, this may breach their duty to ensure their children receive a suitable education.

If your child is affected by this issue, the first point of call is to contact the relevant Form or Year Teacher at the school, and then the Principle or Head Teacher. A helpful online guide can be found on the Department for Education’s website (found below). Your local Citizens Advice Bureau can also provide free and confidential advice on issues relating to racism and bullying at school. http://www.citizensadvice.co.uk/en/Where-We-Are/

Department of Education Guide to Bullying in School : http://www.deni.gov.uk/final_pdf_version_of_reporting_bullying_concerns_leaflet_for_website_publication_-_16.11.07.pdf