BULLYING will always exist, in the workplace and home as well as the schoolyard. That does not mean we should ever tolerate it.

School bullies often inflict long-lasting misery on their victims. Some adults are indelibly marked by their youthful tormentors.

We have reported on cases where a child has run away rather than face the terrors of the playground. Tragically, coroners' courts hear about children who take the ultimate escape route.

That is why the problem of school bullying should always be taken seriously. In its mildest form, it can be seen as an inevitable part of the rough and tumble of childhood. But if that is not checked, it can develop into the serial persecution of a vulnerable youngster. There are few more wretched experiences.

Today, both Woodthorpe Primary School in York and the local education authority have vigorously defended their anti-bullying policies after claims that they failed three children. Woodthorpe has won independent praise for its approach, and the council reports a decrease in incidences.

But the very fact that three unrelated cases from one school have emerged suggests there is room to improve these policies.

Every bully's currency is fear. The only way to break through the fear barrier is to bring bullying out from the shadows. Children must feel able to report what is happening to them, either to a parent or teacher. The parents must feel able to discuss it with the school, knowing that something will be done.

We are delighted that the three children are happy in their new school, and in that sense the system has worked for them. But the breakdown in communication between their parents and York educators is a cause for concern, and merits further investigation.

Updated: 10:31 Tuesday, October 07, 2003