Anti-Bullying Policy

Introduction

The Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students. Bullying in any form is unacceptable, and we take a zero-tolerance approach to ensure that every child can learn and grow without fear of intimidation or harm. This policy outlines our approach to preventing and addressing bullying within the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah. We believe that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility – this includes the prevention of bullying and, where this has occurred, tackling bullying. We have high aspirations and expectations for all individuals so that they can become confident, responsible and independent students.

Policy aim and objectives

The purpose of this anti-bullying policy is to:

• Ensure that all students feel safe, respected, and valued in the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah.
• Prevent and address bullying in all its forms, including physical, verbal, and online bullying.
• Promote a culture of kindness, respect, and empathy.
• Provide a clear process for reporting and dealing with incidents of bullying.

Definition of bullying

Bullying is defined as behaviour by an individual or group, usually repeated over time, that intentionally hurts another individual or group either physically or emotionally. This can be between pupils and also involve adults. Bullying can take various forms including:

• Physical: Hitting, pushing, kicking, or other forms of physical harm.
• Verbal: Name-calling, teasing, making derogatory remarks, or threats.
• Social/non-verbal: Exclusion, spreading rumours, or deliberate attempts to isolate a person from other.
• Cyber/digital: The use of technology, such as social media, text messages, or online platforms, to harass or harm others.

General principles

• Understanding teasing vs. bullying: It is essential that pupils understand the difference between playful teasing and bullying. What may be meant as light-hearted teasing can, for some individuals, be perceived as unkind or even cruel. Pupils should recognise that not all teasing is harmless and that bullying, even if unintentional, can deeply affect others. At the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah, we aim to educate pupils to be mindful of how their words and actions may impact their peers.
• Perception of behaviour: In addressing bullying, the way a behaviour is received by the individual is more important than the intent behind it. It is crucial that pupils learn to identify and address bullying behaviour based on its effects on others, not just the intentions behind it.
• Recognising vulnerability: We recognise that any pupil can experience bullying, regardless of their background or characteristics. Bullying can occur for a variety of reasons, including differences in physical appearance, social status, or personal traits. We understand that pupils may both experience bullying and engage in bullying behaviour. Our Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah is committed to supporting both those who are bullied and those who display bullying behaviour, offering guidance and interventions to help all pupils.
• Encouraging reporting: Pupils may be hesitant to report bullying due to fear of further harm or a belief that nothing will change. It is therefore vital that we, as a Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah, demonstrate our commitment to supporting all pupils, ensuring that bullying is not tolerated, and providing clear solutions. We want pupils to feel confident that their voices will be heard and action will be taken.
• Reassurance and support: Pupils may not report bullying because they feel it is their fault or that they somehow deserve it. It is imperative that the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah communicates a clear message: No one deserves to be bullied. We aim to create a safe environment where all pupils feel valued and supported.
• Supporting vulnerable pupils: Pupils with learning disabilities or communication challenges may struggle to recognise or report bullying. Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah staff must be vigilant in identifying signs of bullying, even if pupils are unable to articulate their experience. We encourage a proactive approach to support these pupils and act swiftly if bullying is suspected.
• Sensitivity to individual needs: Some pupils may be more vulnerable due to their behaviour or life circumstances. Indicators such as irregular attendance, declining academic performance, or emotional distress can suggest that a pupil may be at risk. It is important for staff to be sensitive to these signs and take appropriate action to provide support.
• Signs of impact: Bullying can manifest in a variety of emotional, behavioural, and physical symptoms. Pupils who are being bullied may exhibit anxiety, depression, or physical complaints like headaches or stomach pains. It is crucial to recognise these signs early, as bullying can have long-lasting effects on both the victim and the perpetrator.
• Early identification and support: Early identification of pupils at risk of bullying allows us to implement preventative strategies and support mechanisms. Through induction meetings and ongoing assessments, we can identify pupils who may require additional help in coping with or preventing bullying.
• Addressing underlying issues: Some bullying behaviours stem from deeper emotional or social challenges. When addressing bullying, it is important to understand the emotional health and wellbeing of all involved. If there are underlying issues, such as domestic violence or safeguarding concerns, the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah will work to involve the appropriate support services to ensure a holistic approach to resolving the situation.
• Role modelling by teachers: Teachers and staff must always recognise that part of their role is to lead by example. Bullying behaviour by any staff member will be treated as a serious disciplinary issue. If any member of staff or adult feels they are being bullied, they should immediately raise the matter with the Headteacher. It is crucial that adults in the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah demonstrate appropriate behaviour and actively support the development of moral values, helping to set a positive example for pupils.

Prevention of bullying

The Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah actively works to prevent bullying by:

• Promoting a culture of respect, kindness, and understanding among students and staff.
• Educating students about the importance of good behaviour, respect for others, and the impact of bullying through lessons, assemblies, and discussions.
• Encouraging open communication where students feel confident to report any concerns or issues related to bullying.
• Providing training for staff to identify signs of bullying and respond appropriately.
• Fostering positive relationships through group activities, team-building exercises, and community engagement.

Reporting bullying

Students, parents, and staff are encouraged to report any concerns or incidents of bullying promptly. Reports can be made to:

• A teacher or the Headteacher.
• A member of the Masjid's Trustee Board if the issue is not resolved through the Headteacher.
• A trusted adult, such as a parent or guardian, who can then communicate the concern to the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah.

Roles and responsibilities

• Headteacher and staff: The Headteacher holds overall responsibility for the behaviour of both pupils and staff. They are tasked with promoting positive behaviour and respect for others, with a particular focus on preventing all forms of bullying among pupils. The Headteacher empowers staff to take appropriate disciplinary action in response to inappropriate behaviour. Teachers play an active role in addressing issues involving alleged perpetrators and are responsible for managing the situation while coordinating the actions of other staff members when handling bullying complaints. Any reports of bullying received by staff must be promptly reported to the Headteacher and dealt with as swiftly as possible.
• Students: Students are expected to treat each other with respect, report any bullying they witness or experience, and support their peers in creating a safe environment.
• Parents/Guardians: Parents and guardians should encourage their children to behave respectfully, monitor their behaviour, and communicate any concerns about bullying to the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah.

Anti-bullying procedure

When an incident of bullying is reported, the following steps will be taken:

• Investigation: The Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah will investigate the matter promptly and thoroughly. This may involve speaking with the alleged victim, the alleged bully, and any witnesses. If more than one member of staff is involved, they should work together to provide a coordinated approach. Opportunities should be created whereby the pupil can be encouraged to express their concerns safely and in confidence. Sufficient time should be set aside for the supporter to listen and take note.
• Support for the victim: The victim will be provided with appropriate support, which may include additional supervision to ensure their well-being.
• Action against the bully: If bullying is confirmed, appropriate action will be taken, which may include:
  • A formal warning or reprimand.
  • A meeting with the parents or guardians of both the victim and the bully.
  • Temporary suspension or exclusion from the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah if the behaviour persists.
  • Permanent exclusion for serious or repeat breaches of the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah anti-bullying policy.
• Follow-up: The situation will be monitored to ensure the bullying has stopped and that the victim feels safe and supported.

Strategies for dealing with reports of bullying

• Listen and support:
  • Provide a safe, private space for the student to talk.
  • Listen carefully, validating their feelings, and offer reassurance that the bullying is not their fault.
  • Use active listening techniques, such as reflecting back what the student says, to show understanding.
• Gather information:
  • Collect detailed information from both the victim and the alleged perpetrator, as well as any witnesses.
  • Approach the situation with neutrality, ensuring all perspectives are heard.
  • Document all information gathered for future reference.
• Intervene immediately:
  • Address bullying as soon as it is identified, intervening immediately to stop the behaviour.
  • Make it clear that bullying is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
  • Ensure that the bullying stops in the moment and that the situation does not escalate.
  • Involve the Headteacher or designated safeguarding lead as needed.
  • For serious bullying incidents, including those involving physical harm or threats, it may be necessary to contact parents or guardians.
• Support the victim:
  • Provide ongoing emotional support to the victim of bullying.
  • Consider offering additional pastoral care or counselling services if needed.
  • Encourage peer support groups or buddy systems to help the victim feel less isolated.
• Work with the perpetrator:
  • Speak with the alleged bully to understand their motivations and perspective.
  • Ensure the perpetrator understands the impact of their actions and the consequences.
  • Provide guidance to help them develop better social skills, empathy, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Set clear consequences:
  • Follow the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah's anti-bullying policy by implementing appropriate disciplinary action.
  • Ensure that consequences are clear, fair, and consistent.
  • Explain to the pupil involved in bullying why their behaviour is unacceptable and what the consequences will be if it continues.
• Promote restorative practices:
  • If appropriate, consider using restorative practices where both the victim and perpetrator can discuss the issue in a controlled and constructive manner.
  • Encourage accountability and make sure both parties understand the importance of repairing relationships and making amends.
• Monitor the situation:
  • Keep monitoring the situation to ensure that bullying does not recur.
  • Stay in regular contact with the victim, the perpetrator, and their families, offering support where necessary.
  • Observe any changes in the behaviour or wellbeing of the students involved.
• Educate and raise awareness:
  • Promote anti-bullying campaigns or initiatives within the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid Madrasah to raise awareness.
  • Include discussions on bullying, empathy, and respect as part of the curriculum or regular assemblies.
  • Encourage all pupils to actively participate in creating a respectful, inclusive environment.
• Encourage reporting:
  • Encourage pupils to report bullying, ensuring they know how to do so and feel safe in doing so.
  • Ensure that students are aware that they can talk to any staff member if they are being bullied or witness bullying.
  • Provide clear reporting mechanisms, such as a dedicated anti-bullying email or anonymous reporting boxes.