Deputy Head of Primary Message, Term 4, Week 4 2025

Understanding Bullying vs. Social Conflict

At AISHK, we are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. We work closely with students to build social-emotional skills, encourage empathy, and ensure that every child feels heard and supported.

It is essential that we understand the difference between bullying and social conflict, as each requires a different response and level of support.

Bullying is:

• Intentional and repeated behaviour meant to cause harm.
  

• Involves a power imbalance, where one child feels unable to defend themselves.
  

• Can be physical, verbal, social, or even digital.

  
  

• Often leaves the targeted child feeling unsafe, isolated, or distressed.

Social conflict, on the other hand, is:

• A disagreement or misunderstanding between peers.

  
  

• Typically occasional and not intended to cause harm.

  
  

• Involves children who are relatively equal in power and may both be upset.

  
  

• Often resolved through guidance, communication, and problem-solving.

Understanding the distinction helps us respond appropriately. While both situations matter and deserve attention, bullying requires a more structured and protective approach, whereas social conflict offers an opportunity for children to learn and grow through supported resolution.

The AISHK Behavioural Expectations within our Primary School include:

• “Ready to Learn’ expectations visible in all classrooms.

• Restorative conversations led by teachers.

• Teachers and school leaders working in partnership with families.

• Collaboration with student support services for social skills development.

• Culture of peer support and intervention fostering mentoring, buddy systems and common understandings.

Please may I make it very clear that we have a zero tolerance to bullying. There are clear and defined consequences for bullying (ranging from reflection routines through to internal and external reflections. We also ensure that ongoing support for students and families affected by bullying is provided, on occasion, we seek support of outside organisations and partnerships.

You may wish to learn more about bullying via our subscription to SchoolsTV Bullying | Australian International School Hong Kong.

If you ever have concerns about your child’s interactions at school, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to listen and work together.

Mrs Lisa Bonazza

Deputy Head of Primary