Concerns over a “negative environment” at Cowes Enterprise College have prompted the launching of a petition calling for immediate changes to strict new rules.
The online petition, which appeared on Change.org this week, calls for a “compassionate and inclusive review” of several controversial new measures introduced at the school since the start of term, including restricted toilet access, shortened lunchtimes, and the use of music to signal classroom transitions.
It was last week that news broke of major changes at the Crossfield Avenue school, including locked toilets during lessons, limited eating time and lunch, and a slowed-down version of the Great British Bake Off theme being used as a timing cue between lessons.
Students are now only allowed to use the toilet during break or lunch unless escorted by staff, with access to the facilities during lesson time blocked by a large shutter. Additionally, lunchtime has been reduced to just 35 minutes, with students required to leave the canteen after 10 minutes.
The creator of the petition says the current system may “negatively impact student wellbeing, dignity, and access to basic needs,” particularly for those with medical conditions or special educational needs. It also raises concerns about the psychological effect of the new music cue system, which some parents have compared to a game show or dystopian setting.
The creator of the petition has written:
“We believe every student deserves an environment that prioritises their dignity, health and emotional wellbeing.”
“We ask the school to engage with the community, listen to the concerns raised, and ensure that its safeguarding measures support rather than distress the young people in its care.”
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In response to earlier criticism, Ormiston Academies Trust – which runs Cowes Enterprise College – said the new rules were designed to create “a calmer, safer environment” and were developed based on feedback from parents, students, and staff. They also stated that refinements may be made where appropriate.
The petition continues to gain traction online and has already gathered hundreds of signatures. It is publicly available via www.change.org.
I would have never sent my children to such a Draconian
establishment.
They should re-name this inhumane college
H.M.P Cowes Enterprise College
Don’t be so ridiculous. Absolutely no need to leave a classroom during lessons unless a child is ill, in which case why would they be there?
It is a human right to go to the toilet if the
need arises.
You sound like the perfect candidate to work at such
an uncaring establishment.
Really?
I sense, like me, you’ve seen a few Christmases come and go.
If so, do you recall children coming and going in class to answer the call of nature? I certainly don’t.
Perhaps bladders have got smaller.
I blame Brexit.
Jamie did you go to a borstal
It’s a good job that life after college is so easy, no need to teach that life is not so easy now in preperation?