How the day is organised.

Meet and greet session.

First impressions of a welcoming, safe and caring environment are of paramount importance to re-assure both anxious parents and children lacking in self-confidence.

Beginning to trust.

The first stage is to break down some of the barriers between group members by "getting to know you" games and role plays.

Focus on raising self-esteem.

Children who have suffered long-term bullying nearly always undervalue themselves. It is important at an early stage to encourage them to identify their own strengths and skills and to realise that it is the bully who has the problem- nobody deserves to be bullied.

Understanding the terms "bully" and "victim".

Gives pupils a chance to stand back and view these terms dispassionately and look at examples of and reasons for, this behaviour, and how to begin to change it.

Assertiveness training.

Understanding the difference between aggression, assertiveness and passivity. Introducing assertive strategies to deal with bullying situations. Practising these in role-play situations.

Exchanging ideas.

Using previous experiences to graft on these new techniques and to try to effect more positive outcomes in future issues.

Relaxation techniques.

Learning to create your own personal space , to " let go" and completely relax.

Creating a support network.

Exchanging contact details with other members of the group to provide continuing two-way links for support and friendship. Pupils who have experienced bullying are often particularly good at providing understanding and support to others in similar circumstances. It also helps them to reinforce messages for themselves and re-build relationship skills with others.

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