It was an odds-on winner when Upton Junior School in Broadstairs held its latest awareness campaign.

Children collectively put their best feet forward to take part in the Odd Socks Day to highlight the UK Anti-Bullying Week that runs from November 14-18.

Pupils donned their brightest and boldest socks in a mismatched pair as the fabulous footwear made a sparkling show in classrooms and around the school backed up by the nationwide Anti-Bullying Alliance charity’s serious message – everyone is different in their own way.

The learning centred on the theme Power for Good and children engaged with the nationwide BBC live lesson which embraced kindness and the importance of standing up and speaking out.

Upton’s Personal Development Lead Izzy Reed explained: “Anti Bullying Week works in relation with the Anti-Bullying Alliance to raise awareness of bullying and teaches ways to prevent and stop this.

“It forms part of Upton's personal development curriculum - with key links to our overarching themes of relationships, health and wellbeing, and living in the wider world.

“It is important that children feel confident in their power to stand up for what is right.”

Head of School Darci Arthur added: “Upton was even brighter than usual as the children wore odd socks with their school uniform. This was an initiative to celebrate being unique and different - with each child wearing mismatched pairs with various patterns, images and words.

“It reflects and endorses the Dr Seuss inspirational quote that can be found on our school walls – ‘why fit in when you were born to stand out’.

“Kindness, tolerance and respect are central to our core values and our pupils are aware of our ongoing anti-bullying message which is reaffirmed regularly. They know they have a safe and secure school in which to enjoy their learning, and if any of them need to discuss any issues including bullying they know they can speak in confidence to a member of staff immediately.

“Anti-bullying week is an excellent nationwide campaign and offers a platform for our school community to further discuss important issues.”

Anti Bullying Week ran from November 10-14. Upton supports the 2025 Anti-Bullying Alliance core message. It reads:

“Every year, bullying impacts the lives of countless young people and silence helps it grow.

“This Anti-Bullying Week, we’re empowering young people to use their Power for Good to safely speak up and raise awareness when they see bullying, face to face or online.

“Lasting change needs all of us. From playgrounds to parliament, our homes to our phones — we all have a part to play.

“Together, we can use our Power for Good to end bullying — for good.”

For more information go online to www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

Upton Juniors is part of the Viking Academy Trust with partner schools Chilton Primary and Ramsgate Arts Primary.

*For more information contact Head of School Darci Arthur on 01843 861393.