Children Afraid to Go to School: Concerns Over Bullying at Breiðholtsskóli
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Loading... - Bertha Friedrich
- 21 Mar 2025
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At Breiðholtsskóli, a middle school in Reykjavík, children in one year group have been subjected to bullying and violence by a group of their peers for several years. Reports indicate that the violence has taken various forms, including mental, physical, and sexual abuse, leading to a significant impact on the affected children's studies and overall well-being.
Parents of students in the affected year group have expressed deep concern about the ongoing situation. Many children are reportedly afraid to go to school, with some parents sharing alarming accounts of their children being beaten during recess. One father of a girl in the year group stated, "There is nothing normal about the fact that there have been several group attacks in this year group." Despite attempts by parents to bring the issue to the attention of city and education authorities, they feel that their concerns have not been adequately addressed.
The assistant principal of Breiðholtsskóli has acknowledged the issues of bullying and violence, stating that school administrators are working to take control of the situation. He mentioned that while there are resources available to schools in Reykjavík, long waiting lists for support services pose a significant challenge. The assistant principal suggested the need for more special schools or behavior centers that could accommodate students temporarily before they return to their home schools. "It is of course a dream for many to have that," he remarked in an interview with Morgunblaðið.
In response to inquiries from Morgunblaðið, the Reykjavík City Department of Schools and Recreation stated that it is not aware of a chronic problem of bullying and violence at Breiðholtsskóli. The department emphasized that it has "clear procedures when cases of bullying and/or violence between children arise." They noted that efforts have been made to resolve the issues within the student group and ensure a peaceful environment, but acknowledged that such matters can often be complex.
The situation at Breiðholtsskóli highlights the urgent need for effective measures to address bullying and violence in schools. As parents continue to advocate for their children's safety and well-being, it is crucial for school authorities and local government to take proactive steps to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. The voices of concerned parents and the experiences of affected children must be prioritized to foster a culture of respect and safety within the school community.
