Bullying cases in primary and secondary schools

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye, Radin Mas SMC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education (a) out of the reported bullying incidents in primary and secondary schools in 2019 and 2020, how many cases involved the expulsion of the bully; (b) how many cases were resolved due to the victim transferring out of the school; and (c) whether there are any plans to better facilitate reporting of bullying cases in school.

Response

1. Most incidences of bullying can be resolved through an educational and restorative approach. For students involved, their teachers help them learn from the incident, mend relationships and prevent further bullying. The goal is to address the underlying cause of the behaviour, and to change it. A range of corrective disciplinary actions is applied based on the age of offender and seriousness of offence to help students understand that their actions carry consequences.

2. The incidence of serious bullying incidences in school in 2019 and 2020 remained low, and those that result in student transfers or expulsions were even fewer. MOE does not centrally track the reason for transfers or expulsions.

3. All students are taught safe channels for reporting bullying. Students may report them directly to their Principals. Every case will be investigated and followed up.