This year the staff trained on the KiVa anti-bullying programme and have begun to implement the programme. We are organising a formal launch of the programme and will keep you informed when that will happen.

Here is some information on the programme:

What is KiVa?

KiVa (from the Finnish “kiusaamisen vastainen”, meaning against bullying) is a proven, school-wide programme that helps prevent and tackle bullying.

How it works:

• Lessons & activities teach children what bullying is, why it happens, and how to stand up for others.

• Focus on bystanders — children learn that everyone plays a role in stopping bullying, not just teachers.

• Structured support — when bullying occurs, trained staff follow clear steps to support all pupils involved.

• Visible commitment — posters and class discussions remind pupils that bullying is not accepted here.

• KiVa Team- we have a team of six experienced teachers, trained in the KiVa programme who will support any issues relating to bullying behaviour.

What parents can do:
✔ Ask your child what they learned in KiVa lessons.
✔ Talk about kindness, inclusion, and how to help someone who’s left out.
✔ Reinforce that “telling” is helping, not tattling.
✔ Contact your child’s teacher if you’re worried — the school team is there to help.

As a KiVa school, the programme will complement the Bí Cineálta guidelines from the Department of Education & Youth, which all schools must adhere to.

What is Bí Cineálta?

Bí Cineálta (“Be Kind”) is Ireland’s national framework for how schools prevent and respond to bullying.

What it means for schools:

• Every school must have an anti-bullying policy, based on kindness and respect.

• The policy involves staff, parents, and pupils in creating a safe culture.

• Bullying (including cyberbullying, racist, homophobic or gender-based bullying) must be recorded and addressed.

• Schools must share a student-friendly version of the policy so children understand their rights and responsibilities.

What parents can do:
✔ Read your school’s anti-bullying policy.
✔ Encourage your child to speak up if they or others are hurt or left out.
✔ Model kindness and respectful behaviour at home.

🤝 How KiVa and Bí Cineálta Work Together

• Bí Cineálta gives the school its policy and structure.

• KiVa brings that policy to life in classrooms.
  Together they create a consistent message:
  Bullying is never acceptable. Everyone has a role in keeping our school kind, respectful and safe.

💬 Quick Tips for Parents

• Talk regularly about friendships and feelings.

• Praise acts of kindness and inclusion.

• Encourage your child to look out for others.

• Stay in touch with your child’s teacher — early communication helps.

💡 Remember

A safe, kind school starts with all of us — teachers, parents, and children — working together to make kindness the norm.