Jennifer Buttner, School Support & Development Officer
As part of the Action Plan on Bullying, the Bí Cineálta Procedures to Prevent & Address Bullying Behaviour for Primary & Post-Primary Schools have been released.
Circular 55/2024 provides details on changes and requirements.
These procedures replace the 2013 anti-bullying procedures for primary and post-primary schools, and the requirements of the procedures come into effect from 1 September 2025.
In summary, by September 2025, schools must:
- Consult with all the school community to develop a Bí Cineálta policy that sets out how school community prevents and addresses bullying behaviour, using mandatory template in Appendix A.
- Develop a student-friendly version of Bí Cineálta policy using template in Appendix B.
Supports that are available for schools to assist with process:
- Online information seminars for school leaders early in 24/25 school year.
- In-person professional learning by Oide for two staff members of school.
- Half-day school closure to facilitate engagement of all school staff with procedures.
Additional requirements – increased oversight
There will be templates available to assist the following:
- All incidents of bullying behaviour must be recorded.
- Principal must provide a bullying behaviour update at each board of management meeting.
- Report on cases to Department annually.
- Annual review of policy.
