AS part of efforts to reduce bullying, Boldon School recently hosted its own awards ceremony.

The year's theme was: 'We're better without bullying'

A national initiative to reduce bullying in schools was first introduced in 2004, since then, schools across the country have introduced a variety of schemes to support victims of bullying such as counselling and mentoring schemes.

One of the support mechanisms that Boldon School have put in place is a Peer Mentoring Programme where older students support younger students. The programme is run by the school's Learning Mentors, Val Hanson and Malcolm Branch who train a group of students each year to be Peer Supporters.

This year, Boldon School received an award from South Tyneside Council for Outstanding Anti-Bullying Work 2012.

The award was presented to student Chantel Swindon. Chantel has helped another student who has been bullied. She supported another student after school, giving up her time to show her strategies on how to combat bullies.

Chantel's parents said "This is just brilliant for Chantel, we are so proud of her".

Both Chantel and Chris Smith, Deputy Head teacher (pictured) at Boldon School were both extremely proud to show off the fantastic award.