The principal of Laurelhill Community College has defended her decision to suspend 19 boys at the school following an outcry from parents and children at the school
The head teacher of Laurelhill Community College has defended her decision to suspend 19 boys from the school, describing it as a “necessary response” to a “single specific incident” amid growing criticism from parents.
Principal Nicola Stevenson penned a letter to parents on Monday, 19 January, justifying her choice to suspend the 19 pupils following an incident during a school assembly, stating she wanted to prevent “toxic masculinity does not develop” from taking root.
Parents of the affected boys, alongside other pupils at the school, have condemned the suspensions as “unfair”, claiming they have harmed the boys’ “mental wellbeing” by portraying them as “be villains”. In her correspondence with parents, Ms Stevenson maintained the suspensions were warranted and involved only a small number of students.
She also emphasised that she had not suggested there was a culture of toxic masculinity present at the school, but rather that she wished to ensure one did not emerge, reports Belfast Live.
The letter stated: “You will be aware there has been significant media attention regarding pupils who were suspended for one day last week. Whilst we cannot discuss individual cases, these suspensions were a necessary response to a single, specific incident involving a range of behaviours.
“It is important to stress the vast majority of pupils in our school uphold our core values and are hard-working, well-mannered and respectful young people. In overall terms, only a very small minority of our pupils were involved in the incident, and some had not previously come to our attention. We have subsequently had a number of constructive meetings where individual behaviours were discussed with parents to help support those involved.
“Our approach throughout has been guided by our Behaviour for Learning policy. When used, a short suspension gives a young person space to reflect, take accountability for their behaviour and, with the support of parents/ carers and school, make more positive choices. Other than illness or exceptional closure, a suspension is the only mechanism a school can use to direct a pupil to remain at home.
“We would be grateful if you could speak with your son or daughter about our three expectations: be ready, be safe and be respectful. Encouraging them to walk away from unacceptable behaviour, to avoid negative influences, and to be mindful of intimidating behaviour when part of a group, will greatly help to create a safe, welcoming and nurturing environment for all.
“Despite some media reporting, it is also important to point out that we have not said there is a culture of toxic masculinity in the school. In fact, what we actually said is that we want to ensure that a culture of toxic masculinity does not develop. Incidents of a disruptive and disrespectful nature have been exhibited by a small minority of pupils and the school is working with the Education Authority and others to support these young people.
“As shared previously, we recognise that young people will sometimes make poor choices. When this happens, they need support to reflect, accept responsibility, and learn from the experience. Whilst we understand that parents and carers will naturally wish to advocate for their child, we would ask you to continue to work with us to address any issues and promote responsibility, resilience, and positive behaviour as required.
“We greatly value your support in reinforcing our expectations. Together we can ensure our school remains a safe, respectful, and engaging place for learning.
“It’s never easy being caught up in controversy and social media can exacerbate situations. Issues of this nature are best resolved within a school community, rather than through public commentary or through the media. However, whilst this has been disappointing and undoubtedly a difficult time, I know we can get through these challenges. I firmly believe we all want the same thing – the very best for all our pupils, staff, and school.”
