The week of activities and lessons takes place from November 16 to 20 and the theme will be simply: United against bullying.
Anti-Bullying Week is celebrated in around three-quarters of schools in England. The theme is decided via consultation with children and young people and this year’s respondents have called for a focus on “unity to prevent and respond appropriately to bullying, both face-to-face and online”.
The Anti-Bullying Alliance is developing a range of resources and activities to help schools get involved in Anti-Bullying Week, including films and cross-curricular activity ideas (designed for both classroom and online delivery).
There is also a School Staff Award. Pupils are asked to nominate their favourite anti-bullying member of school staff. Each nominated staff member will receive a certificate, with a trophy and prizes for the winners. Nominations are open until September 25.
For primary schools, the popular Odd Socks Day will take place on the first day of Anti-Bullying Week, Monday, November 16. This event is promoted by Andy Day and his band Andy and the Odd Socks and encourages children and adults to wear odd socks to school or work to celebrate what makes us all unique. A support pack for this event will also be published in due course.
Schools are being urged to sign up as a supporter of Anti-Bullying Week. If they do this, they can download a certificate to display. There will also be a series of online events to help give schools ideas for bringing Anti-Bullying Week to life for their pupils.
Martha Evans, director of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, said: “During 2020, more than ever, we have witnessed the power that society can have when we come together to tackle common challenges. Anti-Bullying Week is no different.
“Bullying has a long-lasting effect on those who experience and witness it. But by channelling our collective power, through shared efforts and shared ambitions, we can reduce bullying together. From parents and carers, to teachers and politicians, to children and young people, we all have a part to play in coming together to make a difference.”
- Further details about Anti-Bullying Week are available at www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week and you can also find out more on social media @ABAonline and using the hashtag #AntiBullyingWeek
- For information and resources from the Anti-Bullying Alliance, go to www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk