@Markipopo You and your classmates were exceptionally lucky, because bullying is very real and very damaging. I was picked on all throughout school, kindergarten though twelfth grade. In my case because it was mostly other girls the bullying was less physical assaults and more emotional attacks. Let me tell you, fake rumors spread about you can make school life sheer hell. Especially when they're believed and you get attacked by others because of them. (Such as the boyfriend of a girl believing false rumors that said you said shit about his girlfriend behind her back and coming after you to punish you for it.)
On the other hand a male friend of mine had the bullying turn into physical assaults once we got to junior high. He was in about a dozen fights in seventh grade, none of which he started. He also won them all, which wasn't entirely a good thing. Because the bully was embarrassed by losing, he'd gather up a bunch of his buddies and they'd try to attack the guy after school. Bullies don't play fair. (Fortunately the teachers and staff knew what was up and would make sure he was allowed to leave early until the bullies gave up.)