First College: Bullying

Many families are attracted to online education precisely because it is much safer than ordinary schools in terms of bullying. This is unsurprising when the Children's Commissioner UK, Professor Al Aynsley-Green, has recently stated (13.11.05) that all schools without exception are affected by bullying. In his first public announcement in his new post Prof. Aynesley-Green said "I have had hundreds of in-depth conversations with children since accepting this post, and I can tell you that the one thing every child I have met has been affected by, with virtually no exceptions, is bullying." (BBC 13/11/05)
It is therefore no surprise that families consider online education an important option for a bullied child or young person.

There can be no physical threat in an online classroom, or on a discussion board.
An additional positive point is that children or young people who have been bullied (or who are sensitive due to other reasons) normally find studying in the familiar home environment, and the control a computer gives over pace and participation, extremely helpful and reassuring. Nor should this be seen as a mere "escape." The Student can gradually tackle difficult situations at their own pace in a way that suits them, from the safety of home: rebuilding confidence.

However while physical safety is assured, it is still possible to have bullying occur online. This does occasionally happen in First College; usually started by a new student who is used to that way being considered normal.
When it happens we don't whiffle about having a bullying policy. We ACT and we do it fast.
The incident is identified in the records so there is no possibility of anyone denying what was said. A report can be made up - often the same day - and sent to all families concerned, giving the record of what was said, and advice on how this could have been handled better by each student.
This usually has a major effect and the child/ren learn to handle their relationships better.
But if not, if the same kind of thing happens the child/ young person is cautioned privately immediately it occurs. The next step is to shut them out of class which can be done within seconds. Discussion is held directly by phone with the child and with the family to train better understanding.

We once had a teacher who took an arrogant, bullying attitude to our students. The record was checked and he was asked for his account of the matter. He felt he was justified in his behaviour. We did not. He did not wish to change his ways. He was fired. Immediately.
A new teacher was found to be giving negative comments on marked homework without giving praise as well. He was advised on the importance of praise as a motivator and on our policy of praise outbalancing criticism.

First College provides definite and specific guidance to everyone, teachers, Students, and families, about exactly what is considered unacceptable bahaviour. Classes and other Student contacts are monitored, and any disrespect from one Student to another, or by a Teacher, unless very obviously playful and understood by all concerned to be so, is strictly not allowed.
Guidance is made as friendly as possible so the person can accept it and learn from it. We do NOT merely say "Don't be a bully" or "Don't be rude". We explain clearly and specifically exactly what is acceptable and what is not. Children need very very clear guidance, not well intentioned waffle.
The software gives us records of what happened so we can go through these with the person concerned. We can then show the person concerned exactly how they could have handled their reactions better.
This practical and calm approach has proved very successful indeed at training assertive and courteous behaviour.

Finally there is scope for exploring bullying as an issue in the First College Philosophy and Society seminars on Mondays. Although First College Students enjoy a high degree of safety compared to other young people, they need to learn skills for dealing with bullying because it is so widespread in society.