As schools welcome new learners each year, most learners arrive filled with hope, curiosity, and ambition. 

However, for some, this transition is also accompanied by fear, particularly the fear of bullying. New learners are often more vulnerable because they are unfamiliar with the school environment, lack established friendships, or may appear different in language, culture, or behavior. Teachers, therefore, play a vital role in ensuring that every learner begins their school journey in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

Bullying can have serious emotional, social, and academic consequences. Learners who experience bullying may suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem, poor academic performance, and even long-term mental health challenges. For new learners, these effects can be intensified, making early prevention essential. 

Teachers are often the first adults to notice changes in learner behavior and are uniquely positioned to shape classroom culture.

Prevention begins with setting clear expectations. Teachers must establish from the very first day that bullying, in any form, is unacceptable. 

Clear classroom rules that promote respect, kindness, and cooperation help learners understand acceptable and unacceptable behavior. When expectations are consistently enforced, learners feel safer and more confident that adults will protect them.

Inclusive classroom practices are another powerful tool. Teachers can use group activities that deliberately mix new and existing learners, encouraging interaction and teamwork. Strategies such as buddy systems, icebreaker activities, and cooperative learning tasks help new learners build friendships and feel a sense of belonging. When learners feel included, the likelihood of bullying is significantly reduced.

Teaching empathy is equally important. Bullying prevention should not rely solely on punishment, but also on education. Teachers can integrate lessons on empathy, diversity, and respect into everyday learning. 

Discussing real-life situations, encouraging perspective-taking, and allowing learners to express their feelings help them understand the impact of bullying on others. When learners learn to value differences, they are less likely to harm one another.

Open communication is essential in protecting new learners. Teachers should create a classroom environment where learners feel comfortable speaking up if they feel unsafe. Regular check-ins, both formal and informal, help teachers identify problems early. Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, fear of attending school, or declining performance, may signal bullying and should never be ignored.

Bullying prevention is most effective when it extends beyond the classroom. Schools should promote a whole school approach that involves teachers, school leadership, parents, and learners. 

Clear anti-bullying policies, staff training, and parent awareness programs ensure a consistent message and response. When learners see that everyone takes bullying seriously, they are more likely to report incidents and support one another.

Ultimately, preventing bullying among new learners is about creating a culture of care and respect. 

When teachers actively foster safe learning environments, they do more than protect vulnerable learners, thus building schools where all learners can thrive. A positive start at a new school can shape a learner’s confidence, academic success, and overall well-being.

By taking deliberate steps to include, educate, and support new learners, teachers can transform schools into places of belonging rather than fear. 

A safe beginning is not just a protective measure; it is the foundation for lifelong learning and success.

*Monika Tuelifa Ndiimwenena Israel is a Teacher-Counsellor, pursuing a Master’s Degree in Inclusive Education at Unam. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education and a Bachelor’s Honors Degree in HIV/AIDS Management.