Anti-bullying & harassment prevention policy

SOVO International maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward bullying while adopting an educational, awareness-based approach to prevention.

Purpose

To ensure a safe learning environment where students feel protected, respected, and valued. Bullying is strictly prohibited on campus, school transportation, online platforms, school events, and all affiliated activities.

Definition of Bullying

Bullying includes any intentional, repeated behaviour that causes physical, emotional, or psychological harm.

• Types of Bullying
• Physical: hitting, pushing, damaging property
• Verbal: threats, insults, teasing
• Social/Relational: exclusion, spreading rumours
• Cyberbullying: online harassment, impersonation, threats
• Prejudicial: bias based on identity, race, gender, religion, disability

Harassment

Includes unsolicited or inappropriate conduct, comments, gestures, physical contact, or digital behaviour that creates a hostile environment.

Reporting Procedures

Any student, staff member, or parent may report an incident through:

• Teacher or class advisor
• School counsellor
• Vice Principal / Principal
• Anonymous website reporting form
• Email/phone hotline

Reports will be treated confidentially and investigated promptly.

Investigation Process

• Immediate safety assessment
• Interviews with involved parties

Review of evidence (CCTV, messages, witnesses)

• Documentation of findings
• Recommendations for action

Consequences

Bullying may result in:

• Counselling & behaviour correction
• Parent notification
• Written warning
• Suspension
• Removal from school activities

Expulsion (for severe or repeated offences)

Police involvement if legally required

Prevention & Education

The school implements:

• Anti-bullying workshops
• Digital citizenship programs
• Classroom discussions on empathy & respect
• Training for staff on early identification
• Peer support systems
• Regular awareness reminders

Retaliation Prohibited

No student or staff member may be punished for reporting a concern in good faith.

Support for Affected Students

Counselling

Restorative conversations (where appropriate)

• Safety planning
• Continued monitoring