The Silence Performs for Anti-Bullying Week

November 2013

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Photographs by Year 12 student, Macauley A.

Local band "The Silence' has recently performed at King James I Academy in support of Anti-Bullying week. The performance, which was organised by Assistant Headteacher, Mrs Jennings, was primarily aimed at Key Stage 3 students as a way of raising awareness of how bullying can take many forms.

The event began with the band performing some of their most popular songs, much to the students' enjoyment, before taking a break to talk about the pressing issue of bullying. Lead singer, Livvy Griffiths spoke candidly to students about her personal experiences with bullying and cyber bullying, and how she dealt with these problems. She also raised awareness of the various anti-bullying organisations that are available to young people if faced with bullying.

The group ended the performance on a high with the audience up and dancing, and the already great atmosphere lifted to new heights. Ending to rapturous applause, the band stayed behind after the show to sign autographs and take pictures with students.

The Silence has performed at the Academy before as part of the school's Anti-Bullying Week awareness programme, which saw a host of activities taking place over the course of the week this year including peer mentoring training sessions, class debates and e-safety workshops.

"We have a very low rate of bullying incidents at King James," said Mrs Jennings, "and I am sure that our commitment to raising awareness and our open-door policy play a big part in this. An event like this brings our students together and unites all year groups; this has a positive effect upon the friendly atmosphere that we are so proud of in our school."

"It's a sad fact that many young children in the UK will be affected by bullying at some point in their lives and this event was a great way to get the message across to our students that help is there if they ever need it."

Report by Craig R, Year 12 student.

Anti-Bullying - The Silence 2013

Local band, The Silence visit King James I Academy to help raise awareness during National Anti-Bullying Week. The event was only one of a host of themed activities which took place throughout the week. Photography by Year 12 Media student Macauley A.