Introduction

LoveSpring Nursery School is committed to providing a caring, safe, and nurturing environment where all children can learn and develop in a secure atmosphere. Bullying or any form of child-on-child abuse is completely unacceptable in our nursery community. We ensure that all children feel confident to report any concerns, knowing that incidents will be addressed promptly and effectively.

This policy should be read alongside our Behaviour Management Policy and Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy to provide comprehensive protection for all children in our care.

1. Policy Statement

At LoveSpring Nursery School, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and respected. We actively promote positive relationships and intervene immediately when any form of bullying behaviour is identified.

2. Understanding Bullying in Early Years

2.1 Definition of Bullying

Bullying is repeated, intentional behaviour that hurts another child either physically or emotionally. In early years settings, this may manifest differently than in older children but is equally serious.

2.2 Age-Appropriate Understanding

We recognize that young children are still developing social and emotional skills. Our approach distinguishes between:

• Typocial Social Challenges: Occasional conflicts, sharing difficulties, emotional outbursts
• Bullying Behaviour: Repeated, targeted actions causing distress to specific children

3. Prevention Strategies

3.1 Proactive Measures

• High staff-to-child ratios ensuring close supervision
• Positive behaviour modelling by all staff members
• Age-appropriate activities promoting empathy and sharing
• Clear routines and boundaries providing security
• Regular staff training on identifying early signs of bullying

3.3 Environmental Considerations

• Clear sightlines in all play areas
• Quiet spaces for children needing time alone
• Adequate resources to minimize competition
• Structured transitions between activities

4. Identification and Response

4.2 Staff Response Procedure

1. Immediate Intervention: Stop the behaviour and ensure safety
2. Listen and Observe: Gather information from all involved children
3. Document: Record incident details in our safeguarding system
4. Inform: Notify Nursery Manager and designated safeguarding lead
5. Communicate: Discuss with parents of all children involved
6. Implement Support: Put appropriate measures in place

5. Support and Intervention

5.1 Supporting the Child Experiencing Bullying

• One-to-one time with key person for emotional support
• Increased supervision during vulnerable times
• Opportunities to build friendships with supportive peers
• Access to calming activities and safe spaces
• Regular check-ins to monitor wellbeing

5.2 Supporting the Child Displaying Bullying Behaviour

• Understanding underlying causes for behaviour
• Teaching alternative ways to express feelings
• Positive reinforcement of pro-social behaviour
• Collaboration with parents to ensure consistency
• Referral to additional support services if needed

6. Progressive Response Framework

7. Monitoring and Review

7.1 Ongoing Evaluation

• Regular analysis of incident reports to identify patterns
• Staff meetings dedicated to discussing behaviour management
• Parent feedback surveys on nursery safety and inclusion
• Observation of children's interactions and relationships

7.2 Policy Review

• Annual review of anti-bullying policy effectiveness
• Updates based on new research and best practice
• Staff training refreshers on current approaches
• Incorporation of lessons learned from incidents

8. Legal Framework and Links

Related Nursery Policies

• Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy
• Behaviour Management Policy
• Equality and Diversity Policy
• Online Safety Policy
• Complaints Procedure