The wellbeing of our students is not only a shared responsibility but a collective commitment to fostering an environment where everyone thrives. Last week, GIS held its own ‘Anti-Bullying’ themed week where students explored what bullying looks like, its impact on wellbeing, and discovered the transformative power of becoming an upstander instead of a bystander.

Research consistently underscores the profound effects of bullying on the mental and emotional health of students. It can cast a long shadow over their academic journey, hindering not only their performance but also their overall sense of security and belonging. As we support them through this stage of their development, it's paramount to equip our students with the tools to deal with this.

Our recent Anti-Bullying Week was a testament to our commitment to this cause. The week was not just a series of events but a collective stance against bullying, with students leading the charge. There were engaging assemblies, where students shared insights, fostering empathy and understanding. Activities like creating a 'kindness tree' became symbolic gestures, contributing to a caring culture.

There was also an Anti-Bullying Poster Competition (winner to be announced this week!) It was a pleasure to witness the creativity of our students in visually capturing the essence of kindness and solidarity. Such endeavors not only showcase their artistic talents but, more importantly, communicate a powerful message that resonates across our school community.

To be an upstander means to be an active agent of change, to lend a hand when needed, and to contribute to a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. It's a call to action that transcends the ordinary and transforms our school into a haven of positivity.

With this in mind we must remember the pivotal role that school plays in shaping the wellbeing of our students. By committing to a culture of kindness and actively standing against bullying, we not only uplift individuals but contribute to the creation of a thriving, harmonious community where our children feel safe and are able to flourish.

Warmest Regards,
  Mr. Lewis Griffiths and Ms. Alisha Muir
Heads of Student Wellbeing