Filmclub anti-bullying week

To help teachers explore issues surrounding bullying for Anti-Bullying Week on November 14th, the education charity FILMCLUB (www.filmclub.org) is launching two thought-provoking seasons of films – one for primary and one secondary - in which bullying is a major theme. Hand-picked by experts and accompanied by detailed guides and discussion points, the selection includes classics such as ‘Lord of the Flies’ (1963 version), Ken Loach’s ‘Kes’ and Hollywood comedy-melodrama ‘The Women’ – as well as more recent titles such as ‘Bridge To Terabithia’ and documentary ‘American Teen’.

Members will be encouraged to watch, discuss and review the films following research which shows that watching and discussing films with their peer group is a highly effective tool for developing young people’s emotional intelligence. In a recent survey of club leaders 96% agreed that attending FILMCLUB helps children understand different social and emotional issues and 87% said participation in the scheme enhances participants’ ability to share and debate their conclusions with other students.

Charity Beatbullying has welcomed the idea of schools using film to help tackle bullying: “Bullying effects so many children and young people, our research shows in fact 1 in 3 have to deal with abuse and harassment everyday - this is unacceptable. This is why we are so pleased to be working with Filmclub to help spread the anti bullying message.  We hope young people across the country will enjoy these films and work towards helping and assisting their peers,” said Sherry Adhami, Director of Communications.[Source: http://www.education-today.co.uk/]