Staff and pupils at Oakhurst Primary School held a non-uniform day in aid of the Swindon Ten to Eighteen Project (STEP), which supports youngsters who are struggling at home or school, particularly with bullying.
At a special school assembly attended by Justin Tomlinson MP, STEP coordinator Paul Dodson highlighted the importance of creating a safe environment at school.
Parent Vicky Gleed came up with the idea of running the day in aid of STEP, in response to their appeal for community fundraisers to help fund a new minibus.
Headteacher Dale Burr said, “Although we have anti-bullying week each year, we believe that we shouldn’t treat bullying as a one-off issue. We need to be doing things all year round to sustain the anti-bullying message.
“We have our school charter which reminds us to stand up, speak out and take action, and not be by-standers when we encounter bullying. We also have our school song 'No to Bullies'. By constantly highlighting the anti-bullying message we are gaining the reputation amongst parents of being a bully-free school.”
Abbey Meads ward councillor Peter Stoddart, who is a governor at Oakhurst Primary School, said, "Dale Burr and his team are leading the way with their anti-bullying policies, and I am delighted that STEP have become involved. It's a real vote of confidence in the school."
Justin Tomlinson MP said, "I was delighted to see how Oakhurst Primary School has fully got behind this excellent campaign. It is essential that children know how to seek help and support, and by working together, unacceptable bullying can be stamped out."
Help raise money for STEP via www.swindonstep.org.uk
Based on Swindon Link Magazine article: http://www.swindonlink.com/news/anti-bullying