Azores schools recorded 173 bullying cases in 2024/25
The regional total was 14 cases higher than in the previous school year, while the Education Secretary said more schools are reporting incidents.
Archived after the 18 October edition. Search retains this original briefing for background and accountability.
Archived 19 October 2026A higher reported total can reflect both harm and improved recognition. Families should document the specific behaviour and use the school's safeguarding route rather than trying to decide from a headline whether an incident meets a formal definition.
- Schools reported 173 cases in the 2024/25 academic year.
- That is 14 more than in the previous year.
- The regional authorities say staff need more training to distinguish repeated bullying from other aggression.
Reporting and prevalence are not identical
An increase in reports may mean more incidents, better detection or both. Bullying generally involves repeated behaviour and a power imbalance, but a single assault or threat still requires a response even if it receives another label.
The school should record what happened, protect the pupil and explain the next steps. Families do not need to prove a complete pattern before raising a safety concern.
Use evidence without exposing the child
Keep dates, places, messages, witnesses and the effect on attendance or wellbeing. Share them through the school's formal channel and avoid reposting identifiable material on social media.
Immediate danger requires emergency help. For continuing distress, involve the appropriate health or psychological support while the school process continues.
What you can do now.
- 01
Record the specific incidents and their dates.
- 02
Use the school's formal safeguarding and complaint route.
- 03
Seek urgent help if there is immediate danger or serious distress.
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