BOG STANDARD

Frustrated parents hit out at ‘draconian’ rules over going to toilet at grammar

A GRAMMAR school has been criticised amid allegations there are only three toilets for its 1,100 pupils.

And rules about going to the loo imposed at Glenlola Collegiate School in Bangor, Co Down, have been labelled “draconian”.

It’s claimed three single disabled toilets are currently in use and pupils are being asked to leave their mobile phone with their teacher, sign out, get a key at reception and be accompanied to the bathroom where they are waited on.

It’s understood there was originally only one toilet in use for the all-girl’s school’s population of roughly 1,100 pupils from the second week of November.

Some parents have speculated on social media that the reduction in toilets is due to previous reports of anti-social behaviour or a result of coronavirus restrictions.

Parents have also voiced their frustration at a lack of communication from the school on this matter.

It’s understood at least one of the bathrooms has no ventilation.

One parent told the Mirror they’re concerned for the well-being and health of students due to this new rule.

They said: “I think they’re using Covid as an excuse but whether it’s true or not I’m not sure. One of the admins on the

North Down Mums group had up that a pupil wet herself because she couldn’t get to the toilet.

“My niece had to stand for over 25 minutes waiting on the toilet, then the teacher came out and told her she had to get back to class and she struggled for the rest of the afternoon. It’s dreadful.

“My daughter and a few of her friends are struggling quite a lot. They’re in Year 8 and Year 9, and some of them have just started their periods. They don’t really know in their bodies what’s going on, and need to check they’re alright.”

In a statement the school said: “Toilet arrangements are an internal logistics issue and it’s not customary to consult on such matters.

“We are monitoring the arrangements closely but please be assured all pupil toilets are open before registration, break, lunch, and after school.

“Any pupil requiring the toilet during class times should go to reception where they will be directed independently to dedicated toilets.

“Pupils are not accompanied and there’s no key involved, anyone with a medical condition will receive a toilet pass from the school nurse which will allow them to fast track.

“No pupil will be denied toilet access when required.”

My niece had to stand for over 25 minutes waiting PUPIL’S PARENT CO DOWN YESTERDAY

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