Across the year groups, pupils and staff have been further exploring the 2023 Anti-Bullying Week themes, 'Listen up, respect our rights' and 'Make a noise about bullying'.

Our Junior School pupils have been creating colour in the playground by wearing odd socks to celebrate what makes us all unique. Primary 4 - 7 Pupil Council Representatives and our Primary 6 and 7 Digital Champions worked together to deliver an Anti-Bullying ‘Who wants to be a millionaire’, Assembly.

Miss Jamieson, Principal Teacher, Junior School, shared: "The odd socks are all about fun, laughter, but most importantly they deliver a message of individuality, acceptance and tolerance. Which is what being an odd sock is all about... because everyone is different and that's good! The clear message at assembly was that everyone should be kind to one another and if anyone is ever worried or concerned about anything, to tell an adult. When the Pupil Council were discussing bullying, it was very encouraging to hear that they all felt that Robert Gordon's is a friendly, happy school with kind pupils."

It is important to share the message that too often, we are silent when we see bullying take place, silent about the hurt bullying causes, and silent when we hear bullying dismissed as ‘just banter’.

Across form class activities, PSE and year group assemblies, pupils engaged in thoughtful discussions, raising awareness about mutual respect as a vital component of this national campaign. They also explored all the people around them who are available to help if they need someone to speak to. Whether that is a Form Teacher, Guidance Teacher, nursing staff or Head of Year, a supportive network is readily available to help. 

Miss Reid, Head of Guidance (Sillerton), Senior School, added: "Senior pupils have been working in groups exploring scenarios to discuss banter vs bullying and thinking about how it's not banter if: it's hurtful, you would be upset if someone said it to you, if someone asked you to stop, the target isn't laughing or if the focus is on someone's insecurities."