Harassment

Harassment and Bullying

Harassment

'Harassment is an attitude rather than an act. It can be defined as harassment by measuring the effects the acts have on a vulnerable child.' (Besag 1989)

Intervention

• It may be verbal, physical, social or psychological.
• It is characterised by an imbalance and abuse of power.
• It takes the form of repeated behaviours not only causing distress at the time it happens but also distress provoked by the fear of future actions.
• It may be in the form of socially acceptable behaviour, where a highly competitive approach makes others feel inferior and distressed.

The intervention strategies adopted by the College are designed to empower victims of harassment and ensure their future safety
and to give students an opportunity to address their unacceptable behaviour.

These processes include:
• immediate intervention by any observing member of staff,
• referral to the Priory Co-ordinator, College Counsellor or Deputy Principal,
• personal counselling and support for the students as necessary,
• counselling to address unacceptable behaviour,
• a range of sanctions including isolation, loss of privileges, community service, suspension or school exclusion.

A Community Concern

Harassment is a concern for the entire school community and consequently all students, staff and parents have a role to play in eliminating it from our College.

Staff should:
• be alert to harassment and signs of distress in students,
• respond to incidences of harassment according to the policy of the College,
• model anti-harassment behaviour,

Parents should:
• encourage their children to be open with them about harassment. 
• be alert to signs of distress in their children.
• advise the Contact Teacher or Priory Co-ordinator of any concerns.
• model anti-harassment behaviour for their children.

Students should:
• take appropriate steps to discourage or prevent harassment.
• advise staff of harassment.
• discuss these experiences with their parents.

This is a condensed version of the Policy. Please contact the School Office for the complete document.