Here’s why a Peterborough school has been singled out for its excellent work tackling bullying

The Thomas Deacon Academy has been presented with the Bullying Intervention Group (BIG) Award for its excellent record in challenging bullying.

The national award scheme, endorsed by Kidscape, recognises high-quality intervention to counteract the issue and supports schools with their anti-bullying approaches.

Principal of Thomas Deacon Academy, Rick Carroll, was delighted to have received this prestigious national award, which he said was a “testament to all the support we give our student community to challenge and tackle bullying.”

He said: “Our values actively encourage our students to talk to someone about their feelings and support one another as much as they can. I am very proud of all the staff involved in ensuring student wellbeing is a top priority at TDA.”

The Academy was commended for its anti-bullying strategies and support for pupils.

Val McFarlane, a director at Bullying Intervention Group, said: “Thomas Deacon Academy has a range of excellent anti-bullying strategies in place to prevent and address bullying. Bullying can occur in any setting, schools need to take this issue very seriously and ensure that they do not only implement good practice, but that they are consistent, effective and confident in tackling bullying.

“Thomas Deacon Academy has met all of our essential criteria, and I am delighted that they have now achieved the BIG Award for Excellence in Challenging Bullying.”

The inspector also gave the academy recommendations to further strengthen its strategies. One was that a short policy be written on how to restore relationships following any incidents that might occur.

As part of the Award, Thomas Deacon Academy will receive a certificate, a BIG Award logo and a plaque to display in the academy.