Cyberbullying resources for teachers

Cyberbullying resources for teachers have been released by charity Just Like Us, to help tackle the issue which disproportionately impacts LGBT+ school pupils.

A quarter of LGBT+ secondary school pupils have experienced cyberbullying. 

In general, LGBT+ young people are disproportionately affected by bullying of all forms. Research has shown that LGBT+ pupils are twice as likely as their non-LGBT+ peers to have been bullied in the past year (43% compared to 21%).

But a quarter (24%) of LGBT+ pupils have experienced cyberbullying specifically, compared to 16% of non-LGBT+ pupils. 

To address and tackle this issue, Just Like Us has released free teaching resources for primary and secondary schools.

You can sign up now to download our free cyberbullying resources for teachers.

Cyberbullying resources for teachers in primary and secondary schools

Cyberbullying primary PSHE lesson (Upper KS2)

This resource introduces primary school pupils to the concept of cyberbullying in a way they can relate to and understand. It highlights the importance of online kindness and encourages students to become allies to those who might be experiencing bullying. Through relatable scenarios, such as Olu’s story—a young gamer who faces unkind comments from classmates—students learn to recognize cyberbullying, support friends, and stand up for each other.

The lesson encourages younger students to understand the impact of their words online, emphasizing that even comments made “as a joke” can cause harm. The resource also includes current research, encouraging pupils to reflect on the prevalence of homophobic language they might come across online.

It also provides practical advice on what to do if they or a friend are being bullied online:

• Speak to a trusted adult: The lesson underscores the importance of involving a trusted adult, such as a teacher or parent, to offer guidance.
• Document the bullying: By taking screenshots, students learn to create a record of harmful comments or messages.
• Report and block: Students are shown how to use reporting features on platforms to help prevent further harm.

Through interactive discussions and activities, the resource encourages young students to develop empathy and responsibility, helping to create a kinder digital environment.

Cyberbullying secondary form time resource (KS4 and KS5)

Cyberbullying can be more complex for older students, who often have greater autonomy online and may encounter hate speech in more subtle or persistent forms. Just Like Us’ form time resource for secondary schools tackles these nuances, teaching students to identify and address online bullying, especially when it’s directed at LGBT+ peers.

The secondary resource builds on the foundational principle of being an “ally.” Students are introduced to the LEAD model, which stands for Listen, Educate, Advocate, and Do:

• Listen: Encouraging students to provide a supportive ear to friends who may be experiencing cyberbullying.
• Educate: Reminding students to learn about the experiences of others, particularly those within marginalized groups like LGBT+ youth.
• Advocate: Standing up for those who may be bullied, either by reporting the behavior or by showing support.
• Do: Taking action by reporting or blocking harmful content and creating positive interactions online.

Through relatable examples, such as Valentino’s story, students learn the real-world impact of cyberbullying on mental health and self-worth. This resource also emphasises the importance of not being a bystander and actively supporting peers who might be struggling.

How to download and use the free school resources

If you are a teacher in the UK, you can sign up now to browse and download all of our resources.