Bullying can occur anywhere, not just in school. People get bullied outside of school, often by people they know in school but also by those who live nearby.
Although your teachers and your school can take action on bullying occurring in school and on the journey to and from school, they will be less likely to take action on bullying occurring at the weekends or on school holidays. However, you should still tell the school and your parents or carer because the school may know someone in the community who can
help you.
Bullying on the school bus
If you are on a school bus, try and sit near the driver. If you travel on a regular bus, try and sit near an adult. Often, buses, shops and streets have CCTV cameras so it should be easier to capture any instances of violence or harassment. If you are being bullied on the school bus, let your parents know so that they can tell the driver and contact the Student Behaviour Team on 08457 430430 or email:
student.behaviourteam@essex.gov.uk
If you are worried about being bullied on your way to or from school, try and make your route less predictable, or travel with friends, regardless of whether they are older or younger. If it is dark, stick to well lit and busier streets where there are lots of people. You could also invest in a personal safety alarm which is relatively cheap and looks like a key ring.