AN “urgent review” must be carried out by council education chiefs to ensure that everything is being done to prevent bullying in Dumfries and Galloway schools.
That is the view of Annandale South Councillor George Jamieson, who will this week call for action to be taken so that teachers and education officials can better respond to incidents of bullying involving youngsters.
School bullying is an issue that Councillor Jamieson – the SNP group’s education spokesman – has raised at previous council committees.
However, at today’s full council meeting he will table a formal motion demanding that more preventative work is done, and to ensure the council’s procedures around bullying meet updated guidelines from the Scottish Government.
His motion, seconded by Abbey Councillor Kim Lowe, reads: “Dumfries and Galloway Council recognises the damage unchallenged bullying behaviour may have on individuals, young people and our school communities, as well as the ramifications within our wider communities.
“It is vital we do all we can to support those in our learning community, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
“Therefore, Dumfries and Galloway Council highlights the need to urgently review and enhance this council’s response to incidents of bullying, where and when they occur in our schools.”
In October 2023, the Scottish Government published updated guidelines around the monitoring and recording of bullying incidents within schools. Councillor Jamieson is now calling for council education director Gillian Brydson to carry out “an urgent review” to ensure the council is complying with these guidelines.
He insists this review must include the recording and monitoring of systems within schools, a clear definition of ‘bullying’ which is agreed and understood by staff, pupils, and parents, and ensuring all children and young people are more comfortable in raising concerns, as well as school staff being “adequately trained to respond appropriately.”
A regionwide school bullying policy, including inclusion/exclusion and communication, should also be produced, says the councillor.
