From Awareness to Action: Stopping Bullying and Building Emotional Intelligence

Bullying and limited emotional awareness can have a serious impact on school communities. Addressing these challenges is essential for creating safe learning environments where every student can thrive. This course focused on exploring strategies to prevent bullying and foster emotional intelligence in the classroom.

Noua ediție a cursului “How to Prevent Bullying and Cyber Bullying in Schools and Promote Social Emotional Learning” a avut loc în Tenerife de la 22 februarie 2026 – 28 februarie 2026. The participants came from all across Europe, with Andrea and Sara Anna from IC Livatino Ficarazzi, Sandy Maria and Natalina from ICS Levanto ISA 23 in Italy; Željka and Andreja from Osnovna škola “Braća Seljan” Karlovac in Croatia;  Ana, Marina and Nora from Association of Spanish Language Teachers in Serbia; Kine, Ann-Merethe, Ida, Lina and Ida from Lillestrøm Kommune in Norway.

We began the week with an introduction day, focusing on bullying: what it is, the different forms it can take, and the roles involved in a bullying situation. Through group discussions and reflection, we explored the difference between conflict and bullying, highlighting three core elements that set them apart.

The following day, we tackled one of the most challenging types of bullying: cyberbullying. In today’s digital world, the internet plays a major role in students’ lives, offering both risks and opportunities. Through practical activities and open dialogue, participants examined how cyberbullying differs from traditional bullying and where the two overlap. They also shared experiences from their schools and explored strategies to help students stay safe online.

Midweek, the focus shifted to bullying prevention. We asked: how can schools foster inclusive, safe, and collaborative environments? Using interactive and non-formal activities, we looked at how trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging are crucial to reducing bullying and strengthening classroom communities.

On Thursday, we explored emotional intelligence and its link to bullying. Applying Daniel Goleman’s framework, participants reflected on self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. Through group exercises and role-playing, teachers experienced firsthand how to support students in developing these abilities.

We wrapped up the course with a session on diversity and inclusion, emphasizing how embracing different backgrounds, perspectives, and identities is essential in preventing discrimination and bullying. Participants discussed ways to foster inclusive teaching and cultural awareness in their classrooms.

This course was not only an educational experience, but also a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow educators, exchange ideas, and build professional relationships across borders — all in the inspiring setting of Tenerife.

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