A rise in Cyber-bullying at PCA!

There has been a rise since the return from the Christmas Holidays, in Cyber-Bullying incidents. This is likely to be due, to children receiving electronic devices such as mobile phones, iPads, tablets and laptops etc. as Christmas gifts. These incidents have increased significantly, especially in Upper Key Stage 2, where children are accessing many social media platforms.

This Cyber-Bullying is happening outside of school hours, but is spiraling out of control causing, many arguments amongst the children in school time, during break-times and valuable lesson times.

The Department for Education states that “Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using technology. Whether on social media sites, through a mobile phone, or gaming sites, the effects can be devastating for the young person involved. There are ways to help prevent a child from being cyberbullied and to help them cope and stop the bullying if it does happen.

Parents and carers need to be aware that most children have been involved in cyberbullying in some way, either as a victim, perpetrator, or bystander. By its very nature, cyberbullying tends to involve a number of online bystanders and can quickly spiral out of control. Parents and carers have a challenging job. They need to know what their children are doing online and also help them to do it in a safe way. With technology changing on a day-to-day basis, the best way to stay informed is for parents to be involved.”

We ask that you monitor your child’s usage on these devices and be aware that there are age limits for social media platforms, all of which being above Primary age.

Thank you.