Understand
Ebbw Vale secondary school criticised for toilet chaperone policy
Overview
Campaigner Molly Fenton has criticised Ebbw Fawr Learning Community in Blaenau Gwent for introducing a policy where certain secondary pupils are escorted to the toilet by pastoral staff. The school implemented the measure to combat vandalism and missed lessons, initially proposing it for all pupils during lessons before revising it to apply only to persistent late attenders or those on stage three of its behaviour policy. Fenton warned that the policy could discourage students, particularly those dealing with periods or health issues, from using the facilities due to embarrassment and a lack of trust in authority.
Key points
- Ebbw Fawr Learning Community introduced toilet chaperones to tackle costly vandalism and excessive time spent out of lessons.
- The school initially told parents all secondary pupils asking to use the toilet during lessons would be escorted by pastoral staff.
- Following a meeting with pupil representatives, the school revised the policy so it only applies to pupils on stage three of its behaviour policy or persistent late attenders.
- Love Your Period campaign founder Molly Fenton warned the policy puts pupils at risk and could discourage them from seeking help for periods and health issues.
- Fenton stated that many young people already avoid using school toilets out of embarrassment and would not trust an authority figure as a chaperone.