Bullying at School: A Parent's Guide

Finding out your child is being bullied is upsetting. The good news is that schools have a legal duty to act, and there are clear steps you can take to get it stopped.

Signs your child may be being bullied

Watch for reluctance to go to school, unexplained cuts or damaged belongings, missing money or possessions, changes in mood or sleep, fewer friends, or a drop in school work. Cyberbullying can be harder to spot - be alert to distress after being online.

What to do first

• Listen calmly and reassure your child it is not their fault and that you will help.
• Write down what happened, when, where, and who was involved - a dated record is valuable if you need to escalate.
• Contact the class teacher or head of year and ask for a meeting. Keep it factual.

How schools must respond

By law all state schools in England must have a behaviour policy that includes measures to prevent bullying, and academies must do the same. Ask to see the anti-bullying policy and ask what specific steps the school will take and when they will review it with you. A good school will act quickly, keep you informed, and support both children involved.

If it is not resolved

If the bullying continues, escalate in writing to the headteacher, then to the governing body if needed, following the school's complaints procedure. For serious cases involving violence, threats or discrimination, or persistent cyberbullying, you can involve the police. Ofsted also considers behaviour and safeguarding - our guide on understanding Ofsted ratings explains how.

Supporting your child

Rebuild confidence with activities they enjoy outside school, keep talking, and reassure them that speaking up was the right thing to do. If your child's wellbeing is badly affected, your GP and the school's pastoral team can help, and in some cases families consider a move to a different school.