Three students from West Exe School have taken their advocacy against bullying to a broader platform, participating in a national conference aimed at influencing school policies on this critical issue.
Ayeisha, William, and Willow represented their school at the inaugural Young Anti-Bullying Alliance meeting for the 2026 cohort in England and Wales, held in London. As senior anti-bullying ambassadors, they joined peers from various schools across the nation to exchange ideas, formulate strategies, and enhance initiatives to combat bullying. Recently, a related incident occurred where a 13-year-old boy was arrested over a viral trend that has raised concerns about school safety.
Engagement with National Policy Makers
The conference featured discussions on the role of social media in bullying, allowing students to engage directly with members of the Department for Education’s pupil mental wellbeing and engagement team. The insights gathered from these discussions are expected to inform a new national pupil engagement framework.
Staff members at West Exe School have commended the trio for their dedication to fostering a supportive environment among their peers and promoting a culture of respect.
Preparation for Anti-Bullying Week
The experiences gained from this event will aid the school in its preparations for Anti-Bullying Week in November, where Ayeisha, William, and Willow will take on prominent roles in various activities and peer support initiatives.
“We’re incredibly proud of Ayeisha, William, and Willow,” said Julie Fossey, headteacher at West Exe School. “Their dedication, leadership, and compassion in supporting their peers and promoting kindness truly reflect the values we hold at West Exe. Experiences like this also give them the chance to build confidence and practical skills that will serve them well throughout life.”
Impact on Future Anti-Bullying Efforts
Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, expressed her support for the students‘ efforts, stating, “At the Ted Wragg Trust, we believe every student has the potential to lead positive change. Seeing West Exe pupils take their ideas to a national stage shows how young people can influence policy, promote kindness, and make a real difference beyond the classroom. We’re so proud that their voices will help shape the future of anti-bullying efforts across the country.”
The commitment of these students not only highlights the importance of addressing bullying but also emphasizes the role of youth in shaping educational policies and practices.
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