Parents of a group of 19 boys have spoken out after a school in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, suspended pupils over their behaviour, citing ‘toxic masculinity’ concerns
More than a dozen pupils have been thrown out of their school over concerns of “toxic masculinity” and long-running allegations of male teenagers intimidating teachers.
The group of 19 boys were suspended from a school in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, by the school’s head teacher following an alleged assembly incident on January 9. An official complaint filed by their “disgusted” parents, 16 of whom have spoken out against the head’s move, has called on the Board of Government to take the issue “extremely seriously”.
But emails sent by the school have said the children were suspended following a long-running pattern of behaviour that has seen some teachers refuse to teach classes, and others go home from work.
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Speaking to BelfastLive, a parent spokesperson for the group questioned whether the move was “disproportionate”, especially when compared to other incidents like violence and bullying. The parent said: “I would implore the Board of Governors to take this matter extremely seriously.
“I would be interested to know how many young people have been suspended for violence and bullying at the school in comparison to the 19 suspensions last Thursday, could this be disproportionate? I am disgusted to hear her terminology such as ‘masculine toxicity’ with my son’s name beside it. Anyone who knows my son, knows he is the most lovable, kind natured, humble young person with the utmost respect to all. Some of these boys have never even had a detention.”
Emails seen by the publication have argued that the boys engaged in “disruptive and disrespectful behaviour directed towards staff” that has been ongoing since September, leaving some teachers so upset that they had to go home. Parents have been told the school will set up one-to-one meetings with each family to discuss the suspensions, and the children have been asked to write a “reflective note” on their behaviour. The emails also reportedly allege that a group of 15 boys confronted the principle outside her office in an “intimidating” manner.
The principal wrote in the email: “I have been in teaching for a very long time, but I can honestly say, this morning was the most intimidating disrespectful behaviours I have ever experienced.” The Education Authority, which provided support to the school, issued a statement on its behalf reaffirming its commitment to “creating a welcoming, safe and positive learning environment for all pupils and staff”. A spokesperson said: “We are firmly committed to creating a welcoming, safe and positive learning environment for all pupils and staff within our school community. “Respect for each other is a cornerstone of our school community and helps to foster a nurturing and supportive environment for everyone. We strive to build strong relationships with pupils and families, and work hard to guide young people to make positive and constructive choices, enabling them to reach their full potential. Whilst it would be inappropriate to comment on specifics relating to individual pupils, we work closely with both pupils and parents to resolve any issues and concerns through restorative practices. “This approach helps pupils understand the impact of their actions, develop empathy for others and, where necessary, take steps to change behaviours.”
