Fighting bullying and cyberbullying in schools: exploring the best practices!

Bullying, whether online or in-person, negatively affects not only the victims and survivors but also the bullies themselves. This course aims to explore effective strategies for preventing all forms of bullying in educational and school environments.

​The new edition of the course “How to stop bullying and cyberbullying in schools and promote social emotional learning​” took place in Palermo from 23/02/2025 to 01/03/2025. The participants came from all across Europe, with Sadbh McNamara from School Street and Thomas Court Bawn Family Resources Centre CLG in Ireland, Anumaija Hankilanoja and Sarah Harvala from International School of Vantaa in Finland, Andreas Aust and Kathrin Schäfer from Else-Hirsch-Schule in Germany, Andreas Kofinakis and Eliana Kanaveli from 1st GENIKO LYKEIO AGIAS VARVARAS in Greece and Fatma Bajram Azemovska, Gordana Gjorgievska Nedelkovski, Milena Trajchevska, Julijana Hristovska Kulevska and Viktorija Mihajlovska from National institution University Library "St. Kliment Ohridski" – Bitola in North Macedonia.

​We began with an introduction day where we brainstormed various types of bullying behaviors: What forms can bullying take? Who are the participants of a bullying situation? What are the three main factors that differentiate bullying from a conflict?

​Moreover, we considered the victim: What risk factors contribute to children being bullied? How can we prevent these situations? What initiatives can be implemented to prevent bullying behaviors? We explored these topics from four different perspectives: family, school, individual, and community.

​One of the most challenging forms of bullying to eliminate is cyber bullying. In today’s world, the internet plays a significant role in the lives of children, and while it can have a negative impact, it also offers some positive aspects. Through practical activities, we explored the world of cyber bullying. We also discussed the differences and similarities between traditional and cyber bullying. To understand and empathize with bullying victims, we carried out a powerful activity that can be used with students, parents and teachers to raise awareness.

​To prevent bullying behaviors, it’s essential to create a positive classroom environment. That’s why we focused on topics such as emotional intelligence, membership, inclusion, and collaboration—key pillars for fostering a supportive classroom. We approached these themes through engaging non-formal activities and creative games, ensuring that the learning experience was anything but boring! :)

Discover more about this course here.
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