ABSIT Leadership Training Programme: Addressing Bullying in Schools- Special School Settings

ABSIT Leadership Training Programme: Addressing Bullying in Schools- Special School Settings

Initially requested by the Belfast Special Schools, the programme is now open to Special School Setting Leaders from across the region. This professional development opportunity incorporates key elements of the ABSIT Leadership Training Programme, while also providing dedicated space for discussion, shared learning, and collaboration with colleagues working in similar contexts.

The programme consists of eight modules delivered across two face‑to‑face sessions and one online follow‑up session.

Programme Schedule

Friday 17th April, 9:30am – 3:30pm
Session 1 — Antrim Board Centre, Conference Room

Module 1: Context, Legislation & Baseline
Module 2: Systems & Processes

Friday 8th May, 9:30am – 3:30pm
Session 2 — Antrim Board Centre, Conference Room

Modules 4–6: Preventative Approaches, Effective Responses, Communication & Partnerships

Thursday 28th May (1.5 hours)
Modules 7 & 8 — Online Follow‑Up: Policy into Practice
Participants may choose one of the following options:

Option A: 9:30am – 11:00am
Option B: 3:00pm – 4:30pm

Resources

Participants will receive a course handbook, and additional module materials will be made available through the SDS Online Training platform to support ongoing follow‑up and implementation in school.

Programme Aim

To ensure every pupil attends a school where staff are trained and confident in delivering a supportive, effective, and consistent approach to addressing bullying in schools.

Programme Purpose

To empower school leaders to:

Meet statutory requirements and embed best practice.
Implement a whole‑school approach informed by research and evidence.
Strengthen the connections between legislation, baseline assessment, systems and processes, preventative strategies, effective responses, stakeholder engagement, communication, and policy development.