FACEBOOK, PHOTOSHOPPING and selfies were just a few of the topics covered as Saddleworth School pupils took part in an anti-bullying conference.
Representatives from the Diana Award, which trains anti-bullying ambassadors up and down the country, visited the school to run sessions about community and positive role models.
The day started with training for the Uppermill school’s pupil Peer Mentors, who run schemes including ‘kindness project’, and later for all pupils.
Stockport Academy were invited into the school for afternoon sessions to share their own good practices and ideas.
And Saddleworth School Peer Mentors gave an interactive presentation, including a quiz and videos, about their anti-bullying work.
Kirsten Fletcher, who is on the National Youth Board for anti-bullying, presented ideas from her recent visit to Facebook headquarters in Dublin to explore issues around cyber-bullying.
“I’ve also been to meetings in London and Blackpool and got lots of ideas to bring back to school,” she explained.
“We shared tips on how to get the anti-bullying message across, such as using music and selfies.”
And the conference proved a success with pupils, who enjoyed the day as well as learning from it.
Isabelle Anastasiou said: “I found the conference really helpful as it gave me a lot of productive ideas to help me to support my Year 7 form group, and raise awareness around anti-bullying in school.”
Gemma Croft added: “I enjoyed the day very much as it was fun and action packed.
“I enjoyed listening to the anti-bullying ideas from the visiting school and I look forward to trying out new ideas at Saddleworth School.”
And Eve Moynihan said: “The day was a lot of fun! I learnt more about how to be a good Peer Mentor and how to be more confident. It really helped me to get new ideas.”
Miss Cradock, who leads the Peer Mentors, explained: “The event is part of the school’s role as the Regional Showcase School for anti-bullying work.
“The children have really enjoyed it and all got involved and have some great ideas.”
