Rating description:
- Fully met: We collect data about whether this type of bullying is an issue in school, and this data shows us this type of bullying isn’t a concern. We also actively work to prevent and respond to any bullying targeted at these pupils.
- Partially met: We collect data about whether this type of bullying is an issue in school, and this data highlights that this type of bullying is an issue, therefore we are actively working to prevent and respond to this type of bullying.
- Not yet met: We do not collect data about whether this group is more at-risk of being bullied / bullying others (or if this type of bullying is an issue in school).
Why is this important?
Research shows that whilst girls are significantly more at risk of experiencing sexual and sexist bullying, a significant number of boys are also targets of such bullying which in those cases is often homophobic in nature. 92% of girls, and 74% of boys, said sexist name-calling happens a lot or sometimes to them or their peers. By systematically recording and addressing these incidents, as well as raising awareness and celebrating difference across the wider school community, schools can help tackle these issues, identify patterns, implement targeted interventions, and provide tailored support to vulnerable groups. This proactive approach not only helps prevent further harm but also fosters a school culture where diversity is celebrated, and all pupils feel valued and safe.
Top Tips:
- It is important to acknowledge that sexist and/or sexual bullying occurs because of external factors, attitudes of others, group dynamics, perceived differences, and systems in which children and young people live and learn; we should never imply to children that they should expect certain behaviour because of their gender identity, or are bullied because of who they are.
- Bullying and sexual and sexist behaviours overlap and it is possible that behaviours can be sexual bullying, sexist bullying and sexual harassment. For example, sexual bullying taking place may also be a sign that there is heightened risk of harmful sexual behaviour, sexual exploitation and/or sexual violence.
- Make sure that your reporting and recording system has a way of identifying and tracking this type of bullying, so that you can spot potential trends and address them sooner rather than later.
- We recommend completing the ABA online CPD training on Sexual and Sexist Bullying to upskill staff on this topic.
Resources & Examples:
Resources
- We created guidance on sexual and sexist bullying with input from the NSPCC and Kidscape.
- Keeping children safe in education: Statutory guidance for all schools and colleges in England - includes advice for professionals in the education sector on how best to respond to harmful sexual behaviour.
- Tackling and preventing bullying guidance - aimed at schools on preventing and responding to all types of bullying.
- Sexual violence and sexual harassment between children in schools and colleges - advice for schools and colleges on how to prevent and respond to reports of sexual violence and harassment between children.
- Child sexual exploitation: definition and guide for practitioners - includes a definition of child sexual exploitation, potential vulnerabilities and indicators of abuse and appropriate action to take in response.
- Masculinity Influences on Teenage Boys - a report that addresses the impact of discriminatory, hateful and often violent language of online masculinity influencers and how it's feeding a culture of prejudice, sexism and hate among children.
- Tackling harmful sexual behaviour in schools - a report from The Lucy Faithful Foundation, the only UK-wide charity dedicated solely to preventing child sexual abuse.
- Teaching about consent - guidance from the PSHE Association.
- Internet Matters guide on sexting - to help understand sexting and how it may lead to sexual and sexist bullying.
- Resources on porn for year 10 teachers - from the South West Grid for Learning (SWGfL).
- Sex Education Forum - resources that promote and protect the physical and mental health of children and young people by improving their access to RSE.