Singapore society must be careful not to unintentionally normalize bullying behavior: Chan Chun Sing

EFFORTS TO “BECOME THE BULLY”

In Monday’s response, the minister also pointed to the Character and Citizenship curriculum (CCE), where students learn to resolve disagreements respectfully and confront bullying.

He added that teachers and school counselors also provide emotional support to students affected by bullying – whether as a victim or perpetrator – and community resources to those who are still struggling.

The goal of these educational and restorative efforts is to help students learn from their mistakes, said Mr. Chan.

“These efforts are made to turn the bully around rather than just ‘expel’ or suspend them from school,” he added.

When relationships are affected due to conflict and misconduct, schools and institutions take steps to educate, discipline, and restore relationships in the school community.

Parental support and partnership are also necessary as they are vital in shaping children’s character, he added.

When a child faces bullying, parents are encouraged to remain calm and provide emotional support.

Likewise, when a child bullies someone, parents can guide them to learn from their mistake, apologize sincerely and make amends, Chan said.

Meanwhile, teachers are trained to create a positive classroom culture, recognize struggling students, and proactively address harmful behaviors and bullying.

All pre-service teachers receive this training and new teachers are supported by experienced staff and school counsellors, said Mr Chan.

Educators who already teach also receive refresher training as part of their professional development.

When any incident of bullying inside or outside schools is reported, thorough investigations are conducted before deciding on the appropriate course of action.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) takes a tiered approach to bullying cases based on the severity of the incident, Chan added.

For example, in cases arising from careless observations and misunderstandings, teachers guide students to resolve their differences and reach a common understanding.

In cases involving persistent and intentional acts of bullying, serious disciplinary measures are taken in addition to restorative actions.

Schools also advise students to report incidents of cyberbullying to relevant online service providers.

The seriousness of the incident, the profile and needs of the students involved are also taken into consideration when taking disciplinary action, Chan highlighted.

Schools can place perpetrators under detention or even suspend them from attending classes.

Spanking is used as a last resort for boys and carried out properly only by authorized adults, he added.

For bullying or serious fights, a police report will be filed and perpetrators will face legal consequences in accordance with the law.

Mr Chan said the MOE will continue to work with schools to share best practices and review strategies for managing bullying.

“We will continue to update these education and intervention measures and partner with parents to create caring and safe learning environments for our students.”