Bullying is main concern as children go back to school

With children going back to school after the summer holidays this morning, a poll by Action for Children Scotland has revealed that bullying is the top concern for Scottish parents. Children’s emotional health and wellbeing, the cost of school uniform and getting their children back into the school routine were also among parents’ main worries in the survey of 1000 families.

The parents and carers, who were questioned by One Poll between July 31 and August 9, were also asked about the factors which would make the biggest difference to pupils’ school experience. The most popular choice was after-school activities: over 19% said after-school clubs and classes would make the biggest difference, closely followed by peer mentoring and one-to-one support.

Action for Children Scotland said the survey highlights the need for parents to talk to their children regularly, monitor use of social media and build in family time when young people and children are more likely to open up about their problems.

Paul Carberry, director of Action for Children Scotland, said: “We want starting the new school year to be a positive, exciting time for children and their parents. 

“Our staff are on hand to provide practical and emotional support to help with the transition back to school, recognising the range of challenges that some families face. This includes bringing parents and teachers together to resolve difficulties jointly and at an early stage.”

The charity has welcomed the Scottish Government’s Pupil Equity Fund, which can be used directly by schools on measures to reduce the poverty-related attainment gap. This year £120m is being provided through the Attainment Scotland Fund directly to headteachers to use for additional staffing and resources.

“The Pupil Equity Fund is a real opportunity to make a difference to those children who are at greatest risk of non-attainment, and to bring in flexible support to help address the challenges,” said Mr Carberry.

Louiuse McKechnie, family support practitioner at Action for Children Scotland’s Glasgow Family Wellbeing Partnership, has offered advice to parents as their children return to school:

1. Establish a good bedtime routine
2. Be prepared and organised
3. Speak to teachers
4. Know what school policies are, particularly on issues such as absence
5. Find out about school clubs.