Odd Socks and Open Minds: Kicking Off Anti-Bullying Week

We recently had Anti-Bullying Week across the country, and we were thrilled to join the movement to create a kinder, more inclusive environment for everyone.

We kicked off the week with a splash of colour and a lot of smiles for Odd Socks Day! It’s a simple, fun way to celebrate what makes us all unique and remind us that it’s okay to be different. Everyone looked fantastic in their mismatched pairs, embracing the message that we should all feel comfortable celebrating our individuality.

Banter, bullying, and building understanding

The fun of Odd Socks Day was just the beginning! Over the next few days, we dived into a range of important sessions designed to deepen understanding and promote respect.

One key focus was “Banter vs. Bullying”. These essential sessions helped students understand the difference between light-hearted teasing among friends and behaviour that is hurtful, persistent, and crosses the line into bullying. We discussed the impact of our words and how to recognise when a joke is no longer funny to the person on the receiving end.

Raising awareness of hate crime

We were also honoured to have Police Sergeant David Fisher visit us and deliver a talk. Sgt. Fisher delivered a powerful talk and worked directly with our students to raise awareness and understanding of hate crimes. This session is vital for helping our young people recognise prejudice-driven offences and understand the serious implications of such actions, both for victims and perpetrators.

Remembering Sophie: A stand against prejudice

A deeply significant part of our week was an online talk delivered by the Sophie Lancaster Foundation. This incredible organisation was set up in memory of Sophie Lancaster, who was tragically murdered in 2007 simply for being part of an alternative subculture.

The Foundation’s talk is a powerful, moving call to action against prejudice, celebrating difference, and promoting respect for people from all walks of life. It’s a reminder of why our efforts this week are so crucial: To ensure everyone is treated with dignity, regardless of how they look or what subculture they belong to.

Anti-Bullying Week isn’t just about what we do in November; it’s about embedding a culture of respect and empathy every single day. We encourage all students and parents to engage with the themes and continue the conversation at home. 

Let’s work together to make our community a safer, kinder place.