A school rocked by violent incidents shared on social media has excluded two pupils and set up a liaison group with parents and carers to discuss concerns. Parents ditched plans for a march to Lliswerry High in protest about children’s safety after two unrelated incidents, both of which were reported to police.
Neil Davies, headteacher of the Newport school, said he is setting up a group for parents, carers and senior staff to meet half termly to discuss any worries. His letter to parents added that the strongest sanctions had been taken against two pupils following a break time fight on April 24.
Teachers broke up the pre-planned fight between the two boys which was witnessed by large numbers of pupils. Footage was taken on mobile phones and shared. Later that day, in an unrelated incident, a pupil was assaulted out of school hours near Spytty Stadium.
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The pupil involved in the incident by the stadium was treated in hospital but later released and there was no suggestion people involved were Lliswerry High learners. After the incidents some parents planned a protest march, but ditched that after talking to the school and local councilors.
Responding to concerns from families Mr Davies has written to parents and carers again saying the school does its “utmost” to keep children safe. The letter also announced a liaison group and action taken against two pupils.
“As a result of our investigation I have issued the strongest sanction possible under Welsh government statutory guidance to two learners. This reflects the seriousness with which the school viewed the incident and our stance that physical aggression or violence is totally unacceptable in any form,” the letter said.
It went on: “A range of other actions, including external agency involvement, has also been put in place for any learners who were involved on the periphery or arranging of the incident. We have also liaised with the local authority regarding this matter.
“Moving forward, in order top discuss any concerns you may have in a constructive way we will be establishing a “senior staff and parent/carer group” which will meet every half term. This will enable a representative group of parents or carers to work collaboratively and directly with senior school staff in order to resolve any future issues or concerns.
“It will also enable those parents/carers involved to have an input into the wider educational experiences we provide and o represent the views of other parents or carers.”
Mr Davies added: “You will no doubt be aware from your own school experience unacceptable instances can take place in any school on occasion. However, please be assured that we will continue to do our utmost to ensure that your child is safe, happy and successful in our school.” To get our free daily briefing on the biggest issues affecting the nation, Wales Matters, click here
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