Cyberbullying continues to plague students and teachers

Tuesday was Safer Internet Day, which helped Teacher Support Network highlight an important issue for teachers: cyberbullying. In a survey of teachers conducted by Teacher Support Network and the Association of Teachers and Lecturers last year, one in seven respondents said they had experienced cyberbullying.

Almost one in five said they knew of colleagues who had become victims.

Although a significant proportion – 44 per cent – had been bullied by pupils, a startling 28 per cent said that a manager or colleague was behind the abuse.

39 per cent said cyberbullying had reduced their confidence and self-esteem, 25 per cent saying it reduced their effectiveness as a teacher and 6 per cent saying they were forced to take sick leave because of resulting illness or stress.

Julian Stanley, Teacher Support Network Chief Executive, said: “Through our free and confidential support services we have seen an increase in recent years in the number of teachers contacting us about their experiences of bullying by pupils, parents and other school staff via new technologies such as the internet and mobile phones.

“What was once a note passed among pupils in the classroom is now posted on the internet for all to see.

“Cyberbullying not only has a negative effect on the wellbeing of teachers but also seriously undermines their ability to deliver high quality education to their pupils.

“Support is available. On our website teachers can access up-to-date guidance on how to keep themselves safe online, such as on social networking sites such as Facebook or Twitter. They can also talk to our professional coaches and counsellors for free via our 24/7 Support Line and Online Support services for advice on dealing with the emotional difficulties it causes.

“It’s crucial that schools adopt meaningful and effective policies to address the problem and root out cyberbullying - whether it’s from pupils, colleagues or school leaders.”

Remember you can speak to one of our advisors anytime over the phone by calling 08000 562 561 in England, 0800 564 2270 in Scotland or 08000 855 088 in Wales.

You can also find the following factsheets on our InfoCentre:

• Cyberbullying and online safety: resources for teachers
• 'Cyberbullying: Supporting School Staff' - guidance from the DCSF
• Bullying in the workplace - what is bullying is and how can you deal with it?
• What should I do if I am being bullied at work?
• Advice for teachers: dealing with cyber-bullying; harassment