Advice for Teachers
Understanding bullying, encouraging empathy and helping every child feel safe, included and supported at school.
Need bullying advice? You're in the right place.
Bullying can take many forms. Some are obvious, such as name-calling, threats or physical aggression. Others are less visible, including social exclusion, online harassment and spreading rumours.
Each form of bullying can cause harm. Recognising what is happening is an important first step towards helping children who feel isolated or targeted.
Understanding Different Types of Bullying
Exclusion Bullying
Being deliberately left out can hurt just as much as name-calling or threats. Understand social exclusion and how to recognise it in school.
Cyberstalking
Learn about unwanted online attention, digital harassment and the importance of protecting personal information.
Banter or Bullying?
Friendly banter should be enjoyable for everyone involved. But when jokes become hurtful, repeated or humiliating, they may cross the line into bullying.
Teachers should consider how the child feels, whether there is a power imbalance and whether the behaviour continues despite objections. Calling something "just banter" does not make it harmless.
Understand the difference →Encouraging Empathy
Empathy helps children recognise how their actions affect others. A classroom culture built on kindness, respect and inclusion can help prevent bullying and make it easier for children to speak up when something is wrong.
Encourage children to notice when someone is being excluded, listen without judgement and understand that small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.
Practical Ways to Support Pupils
Listen and Take Concerns Seriously
Give children time to explain what has happened. Avoid dismissing experiences that may seem minor but have become persistent or distressing.
Recognise Patterns
Pay attention to repeated incidents, changes in friendships, social exclusion and online behaviour that may affect school life.
Encourage Inclusion
Promote respectful behaviour, supportive friendships and opportunities for every child to feel part of the school community.
Need More Support?
These organisations provide further information and resources for teachers and school leaders.
Anti-Bullying Alliance provides information and resources for schools working to prevent bullying.
GOV.UK: Bullying at School explains school responsibilities and how bullying concerns can be addressed in England.
For further guidance from Act Against Bullying, visit our Understanding Bullying page.
Bring the Message to Life
Anti-Bullying Monologues
Explore performances that highlight the emotional impact of bullying and the importance of speaking out, showing empathy and choosing kindness.
Fundraise at School
Bring your school community together to support anti-bullying work and encourage positive action.
Help Build a Kinder School Community
Explore our resources and campaigns to help children feel welcome, respected and included.
Campaign Resources Free Children's Resources