Boarding Handbook 2020-21
Anti-bullying |
This policy is informed by Bill 13, Accepting Schools Act, 2012 and is based on the belief that every member of the school community is equal in dignity and worth. Everyone must be allowed to live, learn and work in an environment that is free from bullying and harassment. Each person at Branksome Hall not only has the right to feel safe and to be treated with respect, but also bears the responsibility to ensure the respectful treatment of others. Bystanders must not allow bullying to persist, and students who witness or experience bullying are expected to report bullying by completing a confidential Anti-Bullying Report. WHAT IS BULLYING? Bullying is a form of aggressive and typically repeated behaviour directed at an individual or individuals that is intended to cause distress and/or physical, psychological, social or academic harm to another person’s body, feelings, self-esteem or reputation. Bullying and harassment have many similarities. There are many ways to bully, but in all cases, students who bully other students want to hurt or upset them. It is not an accident. Bullying can happen between two people or in groups while bystanders watch. POLICY STATEMENT Bullying will not be accepted on school property, at school-related activities or in any other circumstances (e.g., online) that have a negative impact on the school climate. Some types and examples of bullying are:
Verbal Bullying
Social Bullying
Physical Bullying
Electronic Bullying
Racial/Ethno-cultural Bullying
Sexual Bullying
Religion-based Bullying
Procedure For Safe Reporting Of Bullying
Branksome Hall supports complaints that are made in good faith. If it is determined as a result of an investigation that a complaint against another party (adult or student) was made maliciously with intent to harm or made in bad faith, formal disciplinary action will be taken against the complainant. Consequences For Bullying Behaviour When a report is received, the Assistant Head, Senior and Middle School, Operations will investigate and contact the parents of those involved. Consequences are at the discretion of the Assistant Head, Senior and Middle School, Operations in consultation with the the Director, Boarding and, if necessary, the Deputy Principal and Principal and may include:
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