AN ABERTILLERY school has become the first in Blaenau Gwent to be awarded an anti-bullying kite mark.

Blaenau Gwent Council is the second local authority to consider a universal anti-bullying strategy.

Abertillery Comprehensive School is taking part in the pioneering scheme in which it is assessed on its efforts to tackle bullying.

The school received a bronze kitemark after 12 youngsters aged between 13 and 20, volunteered to train as inspectors by the council and Ebbw Vale Development Trust, went into the school to talk to pupils about anti-bullying measures in place at the school.

To receive one of three kitemarks the school needs to show it is tackling bullying by introducing initiatives like a buddy system.

Ffion Morgan, youth project worker for Ebbw Vale and District Development Trust, said the Young Inspectors held workshops, handed out questionnaires and talked to staff and pupils about the work they are doing to challenge bullying and find out if they are aware of the school’s anti bullying policy.

She said: "The school has a very pro-active approach to the problem. The pupils are aware of the school’s policy and there is an effective buddy system."

Deputy Head Jenny Woodroffe said: "This is a vital scheme that gets the children involved."

"We have introduced a number of initiatives including training pupils so that we have a mentor in each class and are continually improving our bullying policy."

If the Young Inspectors find standards are not up to scratch reports are made available to parents and the authority can intervene.

It is hoped other comprehensives, primary schools and youth clubs will follow and inspections will take place annually.