Experts look to reduce bullying

The conference will examine successful methods of tackling bullying

Education professionals are meeting to look at ways of reducing bullying in Welsh schools.

Delegates at the one-day conference in Cardiff will discuss new and existing initiatives to address anti-social behaviour.

Keynote speakers include Profesor Ken Reid of Swansea Metropolitan University and children's minister Jane Hutt.

Mrs Hutt said: "Bullying is a serious issue that effects many young people's lives."

The conference, A Quiet Revolution, will focus on the latest Welsh Assembly Government policy and planning, and hear from educationalists involved in successful anti-bullying programmes in schools in England and Wales.

These include the Rights, Respect and Responsibility initiative, said to have improved behaviour so much at schools in Hampshire that it was described as "a quiet revolution."

Speaking before the conference Mrs Hutt said: "The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to tackling the issue by encouraging schools to develop and utilise a clear anti-bullying policy.

"We need to work together with teachers, pupils, governors, parents and local authorities to help to stamp out the problem.

We need to work together with teachers, pupils, governors, parents and local authorities to help to stamp out the problem Jane Hutt, education minister

"This year anti-bullying week will take place between 16 and 20 November. The conference will provide an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of the issues surrounding bullying and provide help and information to those affected."

The event has been organised by umbrella group Children in Wales (CiW).

Sarah Thomas of CiW said: "A whole school approach to instilling shared principles and values into the structures and practices of our schools is a recognised way forward.

"The UNICEF Rights Respecting Schools Award provides a successful means to achieve this.

"The conference aims to introduce professionals to the award and initiate positive change."

Also addressing the conference at Cardiff's Park Thistle hotel will be Dr Emily Lovegrove, specialist in anti-bullying techniques, Edward Waller of UNICEF UK, Ian Massey of Hampshire council, and Janet Hook of Rochdale council.

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