CLOCKS FORWARD AN HOUR ON SUNDAY AT 2am Row over school’s ‘suck it up’ email

A school has sparked a row over pupil sickness after sending an email to students telling them to “suck it up” and get to lessons.

The message was circulated to Norton Knatchbull School A-level pupils, warning them not to stay off for minor illnesses.

It said staff were becoming increasingly concerned at the number of absences and that ailments such as headaches, tummy aches, feeling faint and slightly “low” were not valid excuses to miss lessons.

One parent described the email as “outrageous”, saying it undermined students suffering from depression and anxiety.

Head Susanne Staab has apologised for any offence but other parents have defended the school.

Part of the email sent to pupils

Head Susanne Staab