Little space for negative energy and bullying

At Millom-ni School in Nisbro, they have “six hours” and “six minutes”.

– In sixth form lessons, it's about adapting to life, the school environment and society, says headteacher Kirsty Grana-Winsold. In the sixth minutes, the free period in the store is extended for a quarter of an hour, so that the students have plenty of time to play and be active. MAIS students are responsible for arranging games and activities for everyone (MAIS = more activities in school).

-We know that students who are active and have someone to play with become more trusting of each other. During the minutes, we play music outside, and the students can sing and dance. There is an open library and it is possible to play chess, for example, Winsold says.

It takes bullying to the root

The student survey, which fifth, sixth and seventh grades answer each fall, shows that today's students are having a great time. Year 7 answers that there is a little bullying at school. Figures for phases five and six show somewhat more bullying. The school principal adds that they practice systematic follow-up in cases of bullying.

– Department heads and teachers are closely involved and investigate the matter carefully and systematically with students and parents. She says the school is receiving good feedback on this matter.

Long tradition

Working in a good school environment has a long tradition. Forest collections they started a full 50 years ago.

– Forest groups have common activities during the year – and go on a trek together in June, Winsold says. Mayor Lynn Conradie went to Millom-ni School and still remembers her jungle group number, according to the school's principal.

Don't cheer for those who are difficult

According to student council leaders Marius Falkenberg Jensen and Kaja Hotvedt Staver, there are not many students who motivate themselves and think they are great.

– It can be a bad atmosphere if it's cool to be tough, but we don't want to be a “cheerleader” if someone says something inappropriate, as they say.

Marius and Kaja notice little peer pressure, for example, clothing or activities.

– Some boys play games, but fortunately there are few conflicts, says Marius.

Do you have a child who is being bullied – or who bullies others?

• Try to create openness in the family about life's challenges – so that the child dares to come to you.
• Many children find it embarrassing and difficult to talk about bullying. Take the child seriously – and do not underestimate the experiences.
• Listen and bear what the child says. Try not to get carried away by your emotions.
• Practice with your child what to say in a bullying situation: You should say that the bully should stop, walk away from the situation, and tell an adult.
• If you have a child who bullies: Don't judge your child. Try to help the child understand what it means to be the one being bullied. Make it clear that this is unacceptable, but tell the child that he or she is not alone. Parents and schools should help both the bully and the bullied.
• Important: Report it to the school as soon as you become aware of bullying by your child or others. Even if the child doesn't want to, you should explain that it's important for everyone to feel better.

Sources: Asker Municipal Learning Environment and Classroom Management Consultants Toni Rosenlund and Anniken Stopsrud, as well as Oder, Boveder and the Learning Environment Centre.

Text: Kirsti Salvesen