Understanding unwanted sexual comments, touching, and online harassment between pupils, and schools' duties under KCSIE Part 5.
Sexual harassment in schools refers to unwanted conduct of a sexual nature — including verbal comments, online messages, unwanted physical contact, and sharing of sexual images — that violates a child's dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating environment. KCSIE Part 5 places clear duties on schools to prevent sexual harassment and to respond effectively when it occurs. The Everyone's Invited campaign highlighted how widespread sexual harassment and abuse in schools is, leading to increased focus from Ofsted and the DfE.
Sexual harassment between pupils can occur in corridors, classrooms, playgrounds, and online. It includes sexual comments, jokes, and gestures; unwanted physical contact; sharing of intimate images; and online sexual harassment via social media or messaging apps. KCSIE is clear that sexual harassment, even where it appears low level, must not be ignored or normalised. Repeated or serious incidents may constitute sexual violence.
1. Deliver a whole-school approach to sexual harassment prevention
KCSIE and Ofsted expect schools to take a proactive, whole-school approach. This includes clear policies, staff training, age-appropriate RSE, and a culture in which harassment is not normalised or tolerated.
2. Respond to all incidents, including 'low level' concerns
Schools must not dismiss sexual harassment as 'banter' or 'part of growing up'. Every concern should be logged, assessed, and responded to. Patterns of seemingly minor incidents may indicate a more serious underlying problem.
3. Engage pupils in developing a positive school culture
Student voice is important. Schools should involve pupils in developing expectations around respectful behaviour and provide clear, accessible ways to report harassment anonymously if needed.
ตรวจสอบล่าสุด: 2026-04-10
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