Schools win awards for tackling bullying and hate crime

SCHOOLCHILDREN at Warrington have been recognised at an awards ceremony for their impressive efforts to tackle bullying and hate crime.  
A total of 31 schools received awards at the “Wise Up” ceremony for demonstrating the importance of creating a safe environment where children can be free from bullying or hate crime.
The Wise Up initiative is led by the Warrington Hate Crime and Incident Partnership Board, supported by the borough council and Cheshire Police. The scheme was launched in 2014 to promote awareness of hate crime in schools and to reward actions to combat bullying and hate crime.
Students have communicated the need to be aware of those who may feel vulnerable or targeted because of a disability, or because they come from a minority ethnic background or because of their sexual orientation, gender identity or religious beliefs.
Examples of good practice include:
·   St Gregory’s RC High School engaged with their primary feeder schools to encourage a positive attitude to celebrating difference and encouraging each other.
·   Locking Stumps Primary took their positive messages out into the community, preparing posters that were displayed in shops, church and parks etc.
·   St Peter’s RC Primary had pupils preparing booklets to help guide parents on the importance of celebrating diversity.
·   Stockton Heath Primary school who actively promote positive messages throughout the curriculum and throughout the year, ensuring that tackling the issues is integral to the culture and ethos of the school.
Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum awards were presented to schools by the Mayor of Warrington, Cllr Karen Mundry. Platinum awards were given to four schools and gold awards will be given to 17 schools which have all demonstrated outstanding practice.
Cllr Jean Carter, the council lead member for children and young people’s services, said: “Hate crime and bullying can have a very damaging impact on children, families and communities, so it’s really heartening to see so many schools taking part in this initiative. It’s a fantastic scheme and there are some really impressive projects being undertaken in Warrington schools which we want to celebrate.”
“All schools in Warrington have robust policies in place to tackle hate crime and bullying and it is vital that tackling these issues continues to be a high priority to protect our children.”