SHAPING THE FUTURE: WHAT EDUCATORS WANT FOR THE ANTI-BULLYING AMBASSADOR PROGRAMME

As the Anti-Bullying Ambassador Programme approaches its 15th year, we’re looking to the future. We want to build on everything we’ve achieved while always striving to grow, evolve, and improve. Our success is made possible by the dedication of educators across the UK, who deliver the programme in their schools and see its impact firsthand. Their insights are essential in shaping what comes next.

That’s why, in March 2025, we launched Shaping the Future: the Anti-Bullying Ambassador Programme Survey. We wanted to hear directly from educators about what’s working, what could be better, and how we can continue to support them and their students. We're already using their feedback to inform the future of our programme, and so we wanted to share some common themes.

Survey responses were overwhelmingly positive, with educators highlighting how the programme has boosted student confidence and strengthened anti-bullying skills. We loved hearing about the incredible impact Anti-Bullying Ambassadors (ABAs) are making in their school communities by stepping up as leaders and mentors for their peers. Many educators shared their favourite resources and training sessions, describing how these have equipped students with the skills to drive meaningful change.

Alongside this appreciation, educators also spoke about the challenges they face. They shared their hopes for how the programme can continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of young people and schools. Here are some of the key findings from the survey:

1. Many educators expressed a strong desire for more opportunities to attend Anti-Bullying Ambassador training events, particularly to support new recruits. We understand that maintaining momentum can be challenging when ABAs leave school, and ensuring new students receive the same high-quality training is crucial. That’s why we’re actively exploring ways to make the programme more sustainable for schools.

2. Another key theme was the need for more accessible or local training locations. To maximise impact, we’re prioritising scheduling events in high-need regions, with the invaluable support of our host schools, who generously provide training venues. We know that long waiting lists and external restrictions on locations can be frustrating, so we’ll continue reviewing our approach to ensure as many schools as possible can access these opportunities.

3. Transport to training events can also be a challenge for some schools, especially those traveling long distances. In response, we’re planning to adjust training day timings to make travel more manageable, including for those relying on public transport.

4. When it comes to student engagement, educators noted that ABAs sometimes disengage due to competing commitments, such as exams. Others find it difficult to earn Social Action Badges, which are an optional element of the programme. Educators suggested introducing more structured activities and smaller milestones to keep students motivated. Many also encouraged us to develop digital solutions to streamline the badge application process. We’re excited to explore how these ideas can enhance the student journey.

5. To further support educators in guiding their ABA teams, there was strong demand for more ready-to-use activities and resources, especially for primary schools. Our Online Resource Centre already offers over 100 free session plans, presentations, workshops, and webinars, but we’re looking to expand and refine this with more flexible, on-demand learning options.

6. Educators also expressed enthusiasm for more in-person engagement. Suggestions included workshops, mentorship opportunities, one-on-one check-ins with The Diana Award Anti-Bullying Team, and networking with other schools. While many preferred face-to-face interactions, there was also significant interest in virtual options such as online meetings and forums to share successes and challenges.

7. And finally, we asked how we could better reward and recognise the efforts of young people. Certificates, showcases and badges were the most popular suggestions, proving that our educators have great taste!

A huge thank you to all the educators who took the time to share their insights. Your feedback is invaluable, and we’re already making exciting changes to strengthen the Anti-Bullying Ambassador Programme. These improvements will be rolled out over time, so stay tuned for future updates by joining our anti-bullying newsletter mailing list.

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