KiVa - Anti Bullying
What is KiVa?
KiVa means kindness or against bullying. It is an anti-bullying system that has been developed in the University of Turku, Finland, with funding from the Ministry of Education and Culture. The scheme is evidence-based which means that the effectiveness of KiVa has been proven scientifically. KiVa offers a wide range of concrete tools and materials for schools to tackle bullying.
KiVa is a proactive, preventative programme. Using KiVa means that schools are taking a proactive approach to anti-bullying - it does not mean that the school has a bullying 'problem'.
How does it work in school?
All children in KS2 complete 10 lessons each year. These focus on children knowing each other and their emotions, what it means to be part of a group, everyone is included, difference is richness, different forms of bullying, your role in preventing bullying and more. They teach children the difference between conflict and bullying as well as what they can do to help our school to be a place without bullying.
Children in KS2 will complete an anonymous annual survey which helps the school to track the success of the scheme and provide greater support where necessary.
KiVa resources may also be used to support groups or individuals experiencing bullying. Some resources may also be adapted to use with children in Year 2.
Staff on duty at break and lunchtime wear KiVa vests reminding children of the KiVa message and encouraging them to seek help when needed.
What to do if I think my child is being bullied?
If you are concerned that your child is being bullied, please speak to any member of staff. Children can also report bullying to any member of staff or by using their class worry boxes. Staff will complete a KiVa referral form. The following definition of bullying will be applied:
Bullying is defined as the repetitive, intentional harming of one person or group by another person or group, where the relationship involves an imbalance of power. Bullying is, therefore: • Deliberately hurtful • Repeated, often over a period of time • Difficult to defend against. • Involves an imbalance of power.
If they decide that the incident is not bullying because it does not fit the definition above, your child will still be supported and staff will communicate with you to share the actions taken to support them.
The KiVa team - Mrs Taylor, Mrs Field and Mrs Forrester will become involved with any bullying incidents following a set format to meet with children, agree actions and follow up to ensure these have been followed. Following this format, parents will be informed after the initial meeting with children. Mrs Wood also forms part of the KiVa team, but will become involved if and when KiVa has not succeeded in resolving the issue. She will meet with parents and other agencies as needed.
Where can I find further information?
Please watch the clips below, visit the KiVa website or speak to Mrs Field for further information.