Withernsea High School has sought to reassure parents following questions about new expectations regarding unnecessary physical contact between students.
Behaviours such as pushing, tripping and play fighting were addressed with students in a whole-school assembly last week, alongside punctuality, as part of ongoing efforts to maintain a “calm and purposeful” school environment.
Writing to parents, head teacher Mark Crofts said: “Too often, such behaviour leads to conflict, arguments and aggression. It is how accidents happen, and it is not always welcomed by those subjected to it. On corridors between lessons and in social areas it is a hazard. Groups of students or individuals engaged in this kind of activity can also be intimidating to others.
“Over the past week, many conversations have taken place between staff and students. Where staff have challenged boisterous behaviour, some students have been sanctioned for continuing to engage in unnecessary physical contact. However, this number dropped off quickly as students adjusted. There has, as a result, been a positive impact around school.”
Following discussions online and direct contact from parents, South East Holderness ward councillor Jon Dimberline contacted Mr Crofts to discuss the matter.
Posting on Facebook, Cllr Dimberline said: “I rang the school immediately for an explanation. Mr Crofts explained at length the aims and objectives of this as an effort to target and reduce antisocial escalating behaviour which if left unchecked can create intimidation, discomfort and an escalation into fights or risk of injury or excuses not to immediately head for lessons when bells ring and so on.
“I asked about general lighter normal contact, fist bumping, high-fives, friendly hugs, and Mr Crofts had a fair and sensible response. We discussed methods and options to highlight what is maybe permitted and what definitely is not. I believe after this conversation, information will be cascaded down to clarify what this is all about.”
Following concerns raised directly with the school, as well as a rise in comments on social media, Mr Crofts issued a clarification of the school’s expectations, stating: “Students will not be challenged over everyday, friendly interactions and our expectations surrounding unnecessary physical contact will not affect the vast majority of students who continue to interact with each other in the civil and acceptable way they always have done.
“At the beginning of the academic year, we strengthened our long-standing school values of respect and responsibility with the addition of ambition and kindness.
“These values underpin our ongoing work to maintain a calm and purposeful learning environment, which includes addressing unnecessary physical contact and reinforcing expectations that support positive behaviour. Through this, we continue to fulfil our core purpose of inspiring confident young people to thrive in a changing world.”