Bullying

Bullying can happen at any age, at any time and in many places, including at home, in school and online. We take bullying seriously, and all schools have clear procedures for responding to concerns and supporting children and young people.

All schools follow our anti‑bullying guidance, Treat Me Well, which reflects the Scottish Government’s updated Respect for All guidance published in November 2024. This guidance helps schools respond consistently and fairly when bullying is reported.

The updated Scottish Government guidance includes:

• a new definition of bullying
• expanded information on online bullying
• expanded information on prejudice‑based bullying
• updated processes for reporting, recording, and monitoring

Each school uses this national guidance to develop its own local anti‑bullying policy.

What we mean by bullying

Bullying is behaviour, in person or online, that affects a person’s physical or emotional safety or makes them feel frightened, threatened or left out. It does not need to be repeated or intended to cause harm to have a serious impact.

Detailed information about what bullying looks like is available on our What is bullying page.

Frequently asked questions

My child is being bullied but doesn’t want the school to know. What should I do?
We strongly encourage you to inform the school. Staff will handle the situation sensitively and discreetly.

Where is a bullying incident recorded?
Incidents are recorded electronically in SEEMiS, the pupil information management system, using the Bullying and Equalities Module.

My child has been recorded as displaying bullying behaviour, but I disagree. Can the incident be deleted?
No. Once an incident is created in SEEMiS, it cannot be deleted.

My child used a racist comment, but didn’t mean to upset anyone. Why is it recorded?
Scottish Government guidance requires all racist incidents to be recorded, regardless of intent.

I disagree with what is written about my child. What can I do?
Speak with the Headteacher first to try to resolve your concern. If you still disagree, your disagreement will be formally noted, but the original record cannot be changed.