Treating Bullying as Everyone’s Problem Reduces Incidence in Primary Schools

The KiVa Programme: A Whole-School Approach

The Finnish Kiusaamista Vastaan (“Against Bullying”) or KiVa programme forms the basis of the intervention. Unlike traditional methods that focus on punishing perpetrators, KiVa emphasises changing the behaviour of bystanders—children who witness bullying but are not directly involved. Research shows that bystanders can play a pivotal role in defending victims, making bullying socially unacceptable and reducing the motivation for bullies.

Professor Judy Hutchings, from the Centre for Evidence-Based Early Intervention at Bangor University, explained: “Bullying in childhood is one of the biggest risk factors for later mental health problems. The KiVa ‘whole-school’ approach focuses on everyone’s behaviour and removes the social rewards usually gained by perpetrators.”

The Largest Trial of Its Kind

This was the largest randomised controlled trial of the KiVa programme outside Finland, involving 118 schools across England and Wales. Half the schools implemented KiVa, while the others continued standard practices. Data from over 11,000 pupils and teacher-reported questionnaires provided insights into the programme’s impact.

Key components of the KiVa intervention included:

• Fortnightly lessons: Educating pupils on recognising and responding to bullying and supporting victims.

• Whole-school assemblies and campaigns: Raising awareness and promoting a culture of inclusivity.

• Breaktime supervision: Teachers wore high-visibility vests to increase vigilance.

• Individual discussions: Staff addressed bullying incidents by engaging directly with involved pupils and securing clear commitments from bullies to support their victims.

Professor Matthew Broome, Director of the Institute for Mental Health at the University of Birmingham, noted: “Bullying can lead to long-term poor physical and mental health outcomes. Reducing bullying can prevent these issues and offer significant public health benefits. Schools in Birmingham have found the programme beneficial for pupils’ home and school lives.”

Results and Challenges

The trial revealed a 13% reduction in bullying, a less striking outcome compared to earlier studies in Europe. Researchers attributed this to disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, including classroom closures and increased absenteeism. Despite this, the trial underscored the programme’s potential for long-term benefits.

Lucy Bowes, Professor of Psychopathology at the University of Oxford, emphasised: “Even small percentage changes can significantly impact individual children and cumulatively improve school environments. The Finnish data show consistent improvements over seven years for schools continuing with the programme.”

Sustaining Change

Many schools involved in the trial have committed to embedding KiVa into their ongoing practices. The programme’s comprehensive approach—engaging pupils, parents, and teachers—has proven to be a vital tool in addressing bullying and fostering healthier school environments. As Professor Hutchings pointed out, the adoption of evidence-based anti-bullying policies is critical for reducing the prevalence and impact of bullying.

A Call for Broader Implementation

Addressing bullying in schools is not merely an educational issue but a significant public health concern. With its focus on collective responsibility and evidence-based practices, the KiVa programme offers a promising pathway for schools across the UK to create safer, more inclusive environments for children.

By recognising bullying as everyone’s problem, schools can not only reduce its incidence but also equip children with the skills and support needed for their long-term well-being.