Celebrating the BIG Award

February 2014

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Members of our Academy Council with the BIG Award certificate

We are again celebrating success as we have achieved the BIG Award, a prestigious national award, supported by Esther Rantzen, which is given to schools and organisations who achieve excellence in bullying intervention.

The award is judged by the Bullying Intervention Group (BIG).

We take bullying very seriously at King James; we have a comprehensive and effective anti-bullying policy, however our Student Support Team and Academy Council work hard to continually develop strategies to ensure a safe and enjoyable learning environment is maintained. The BIG Award is presented following a rigorous judging process, in which all strategies are considered alongside student feedback; this achievement reflects the overall success of our approach.

We have developed a network of support for any student who feels that they are being bullied, alongside a programme of educational activities to raise awareness of the effects of bullying and sessions to help young people protect themselves. For example, our fully trained Peer Mentors are available during break and lunchtime at our Friendship Stop; they support our network of dedicated staff by providing a link between students and our Student Support Office. Innovative activities and debates help to raise awareness and promote acceptance in our school. Our young people regularly consider the damaging effects of racism, exclusion and prejudice, and sessions are held to promote e-safety and to address issues connected to cyber-bullying, an increasing concern for our young people. Sessions are also organised for parents who want to find out how to protect their children from online risks. We are delighted that our efforts have been recognised.