The recently published “Anti-Bullying Procedures for Primary and Post Primary Schools” defines bullying as unwanted negative behaviour, verbal, psychological or physical conducted, by an individual or group against another person (or persons) and which is repeated over time.
The following types of bullying behaviour are included in this definition of bullying:
• deliberate exclusion, malicious gossip and other forms of relational bullying;
• cyber-bullying;
• identity-based bullying such as homophobic bullying, racist bullying, bullying based on a person’s membership of the Traveller community and bullying of those with disabilities or special educational needs.

Isolated or once-off incidents of intentional negative behaviour, including a once-off offensive or hurtful text message or other private messaging, do not fall within the definition of bullying and should be dealt with, as appropriate, in accordance with the school’s code of behaviour.

However, placing a once-off offensive or hurtful public message, image or statement on a social network site or other public forum where that message, image or statement can be viewed and/or repeated by other people is regarded as bullying behaviour.

Every effort is being made both by the Principal and staff to raise the awareness of the dangers of bullying through  S.P.H.E. classes, art/craft activities, classroom displays and school yard supervision. In addition,we are currently revising our Policy in line with Department guidelines and regulations. The clear message to our pupils is to tell their teacher immediately of any bullying incident.