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Q: Do you think that the Anti-Bullying Network is the best
way to tackle bullying in our schools?
Steven Robbins, 17, Trinity Academy, Edinburgh |
| A:
"The Anti-Bullying Network is doing some sterling work in supporting schools and
authorities to share good practice. Today's conference is a good example. It also provides
training and consultancy services to support schools and local authorities in developing
anti-bullying strategies. Good ideas for tackling bullying should be shared between
education authorities. All Scottish local authorities should avoid complacency about the
problem." |
Q: Solving the problem of bullying takes resources eg
money, people, time. How would you propose to fund these?
Neil Paterson, 16, Buckie Community High School |
| A:
"The SEED will monitor the effectiveness of anti-bullying schemes to ensure that
funding is best spent. Throwing money at the problem is not necessarily the answer. I am
pleased to announce the we (SEED) will continue to offer financial support to ensure the
continuation of the ChildLine Anti-Bullying Helpline. This is a free confidential
telephone helpline for any child or young person concerned about bullying." |
Q: Have you ever experienced bullying at school or anywhere
else?
Paul Eason, 15, Kirkland High School and Community College, Leven |
| A:
Mr McConnell said that he had not been bullied at school but was aware of people who had.
He said "The fact that none of us seemed to do very much about it when it was
happening to them (other pupils) is something to be very much ashamed of. I don't mind
admitting that now, 23 years on, and I hope that this generation of senior school pupils
is a bit more responsible than mine was." |
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Q: What do you think is a suitable punishment for bullies?
Michelle Gilbert, 17, Trinity Academy, Edinburgh |
| A:
In dealing with bullying, victims should be put first but perpetrators may need
counselling as well as punishment. Experience has shown that punishment alone leaves the
bully free to continue with his or her behaviour. Bullies should be encouraged to change
for the sake of their schools and themselves. |
Q: Do you think that there is a specific role that senior
pupils can take on board to help create a positive atmosphere for junior students? If so,
what?
Kerry Reid, 16, Buckie Community High School |
| A:
"Peer support schemes are a welcome development. Involving pupils can have an
immediate impact on the problem and has long term benefits in building better citizens for
the future. Senior pupils can have a key role to play in supporting the younger
ones." |
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