Respect Starts with Us

At Oasis, we believe that teaching respect is essential to preventing bullying. Respect is not simply about tolerating differences but celebrating them, understanding boundaries, and acknowledging each person’s unique traits. We aim to empower our young people to respond thoughtfully and choose to be compassionate, even in situations where they may disagree. We also recognise the important role adults play in setting a positive example as they serve as role models for the behaviour we want to inspire in our students.

Oasis Encounter: Fostering Respect and Connection at Home and School

Our Oasis Encounter programme incorporates this year’s Anti-Bullying Week theme of respect. Designed as a therapeutic parenting programme, it aims to support families by teaching compassionate strategies that help build strong connections before addressing behaviours. Over an 8-week period, parents learn how to manage conflicts calmly and respectfully.

An essential part of the programme is learning how to manage conflicts after emotions have cooled. This “strike whilst the iron is cold” approach  emphasises responding rationally and respectfully, allowing individuals to make more thoughtful choices. By providing families with tools for respectful conflict resolution, we’re not only helping them navigate challenges but also fostering healthier, more connected relationships. We hope that by parents learning these skills, it will model them in the home and encourage young people to do the same.

Oasis Encounter for Students: Building Respectful Conflict Resolution Skills

At Oasis, we have a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying. To support this commitment, our National Mental Health Team is rolling out the Oasis Encounter programme specifically for students. This intervention supports students who may be experiencing friendship breakdowns, conflict, or struggling with behaviours that could contribute to tension in their peer relationships. Facilitated group sessions create a safe space for students to learn de-escalation techniques, discuss respectful conflict management, and explore ways to handle difficult situations calmly.

Through scenario-based discussions, students practice handling conflicts respectfully and learn the importance of empathy and the use of small gestures to rebuild and strengthen relationships. While it takes patience and self-control, these simple acts can help break cycles of confrontation and contribute to a positive change in our school environment.

Training Our Staff to Create a Culture of Respect

Oasis staff members have the opportunity to become Oasis Encounter facilitators for our parenting group. Oasis encounter strategies can also be used in the classroom and by equipping staff with skills that focus on relational behaviour management, we are also helping them foster respectful classroom environments and strengthen relationships between pupils and teachers. This training also enhances collaboration between staff, parents, and students to provide a united approach to building a culture of respect and addressing any negative behaviours that may arise.

Working Together to Support Every Child

Our Oasis Encounter programme for parents and students, combined with staff training, empowers everyone involved to build a school community that champions respect. We aim to equip parents with the strength to support their children, particularly when navigating challenges in their peer relationships. Meanwhile, our in-school staff support system offers targeted support to students experiencing these difficulties, ensuring that no one feels alone.

At Oasis, we believe that respect is the foundation of a safe and welcoming school. By committing to this year’s Anti-Bullying Week theme, we’re building a culture where kindness, empathy, and respect flourish, creating a space where every student feels valued and empowered. Let’s choose respect, together.

For more information on our Oasis Encounter course, for parents, pupils and staff training to become facilitators, please email OasisEncounter@oasisuk.org