Secondary Schools
"An estimated 1,544,000 children aged 10 to 15 years (34.9%) experienced an in-person bullying behaviour and 847,000 children (19.1%) experienced an online bullying behaviour, in the last year; there was no significant difference compared with the year ending March 2020."
Office for National Statistics March '23
Year 7's
Starting secondary school can be daunting for new Year 7 students and their parents. With a new environment and unfamiliar faces, its a big adjustment. At this age, children are highly impressionable and can easily be influenced by peer pressure and the desire to fit in, which can sometimes lead to both positive and negative influences.
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In our Year 7 seminars at secondary schools, our primary goal is to help students navigate their new surroundings. We discuss important topics like awareness of their environment, assessing who's around them, personal safety and what to do if approached by someone they don't know. Many students are surprised to learn that something as simple as wearing headphones while walking can put them at risk.
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We facilitate open discussions where student can share scenarios and explore various "what if" situations. When one child speaks up about bullying or other concerns, it often encourages others to share their experiences as well. This creates a supportive enviroment where we can discuss how to address these issues and emphasise the importance of speaking up, regardless of age.
All Secondary Years
Navigating the transition to secondary school can be a roller coaster of emotions. Once the initial nerves fade, many students start to feel more at home in their educational environment. However, the social dynamics outside of school can still pose challenges as peer pressure becomes more pronounced.
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In this phase, fitting in often feels crucial. Some students may feel pressure to conform to the interests and behaviours of their peers, which can lead to stress or even compromise their values. It is important for teenagers to find a balance between being true to themselves and navigating social expectations.
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Support from friends, family and teachers can help. Encouraging open conversations about these pressures and promoting self-acceptance can empower teens to embrace their individuality whilst also fostering healthy relationships. Ultimately, the goal is to create a supportive community where everyone feels valued regardless of their differences.