Police support ‘upstanding’ pupils at St Mary’s, Forest Hall

t was a case of ‘Hello, hello, hello’, when children at St Mary’s Catholic Primary in Forest Hall welcomed a visitor from Northumbria Police.

The Year 5 and 6 pupils were taking part in a Bullying and Cyberbullying Workshop, which was led by a member of the force’s Prevention Through Education Team.

“The children talked about bullying and what different forms bullying may take,” said Year 5 Teacher Tom Johnson, who organised the event with the support of Year 6 Teacher and Deputy Head Deborah Thompson.

“They discussed why bullying happens and who could be part of the bullying cycle. They discussed how they can stand up for what is right, and who to speak to about it.”

“They had thoughtful and respectful conversations about bullying, and showed a great understanding of the differences between falling out with someone and bullying,” he continued.

“They reflected on how they can be an ‘upstander’ and support people who are suffering from bullying.”

It was the first time the event had taken place at St Mary’s – although the police had visited the school once before.

“This was our first workshop around bullying, but Kelly came in last term to deliver a workshop around ‘respectful relationships’,” added Mr Johnson.

“It’s important for the children to hear these messages, and it is powerful coming from an external source like the police.

“Giving them the space to have these conversations in an open and honest manner is important too. The children were engaged, and because they have met Kelly before, the conversations were honest and thought provoking.”