School bullying probe begins

Perth and Kinross Council has commissioned an investigation into claims of bullying and other discriminatory behaviour at Crieff High School.

It will focus on allegations that racism, sexism, sexual assault and harassment, homophobia and transphobia are“rife”at the institution.

Fifth year student Anna De Garis published an open letter on social media recently alleging she had personally experienced sexual assault, regular sexual harassment and frequent racist abuse, and witnessed the same happening to other pupils.

The 16 year-old also published details of a survey of pupils she carried out showing almost a quarter of respondents had experienced racism of some kind, over half had experienced sexism and over a third had experienced sexual harassment or assault as well.

The investigation was initially to be led by David Macluskey – a former depute head at the school who is now the council’s service manager for secondary education.

However, the council has since said a colleague will now head it up following concerns being raised.

A local authority spokesperson said:“The investigation of the issues raised by Anna in her open letter has been commissioned through a school review process to ensure the culture, policies and processes in place within Crieff High School meet the high standards we demand from our schools.

“It will identify where improvements can be made and whether any learning from this process can be taken across other schools.

“As the senior officer with overall strategic responsibility for secondary education, it is Mr Macluskey’s role to lead any review in any school within Perth and Kinross, without fear or favour.

“However, to ensure all children, young people, parents, carers and staff have full confidence in the investigation and its findings, it has been agreed that another service manager leads the review in his stead and we will therefore appoint a new lead.

“They will work with senior officers from the council’s education and equalities teams to plan and oversee the programme.

“A peer officer from another local authority has also been commissioned to work with the review team, which consists of quality improvement officers, equalities officers and partner agencies.

“Head of Education and Learning, Sharon Johnston, has overall responsibility for the final report and any recommendations.

“Another officer will consider a formal complaint made by a parent separately.”

The investigation is expected to run until at least February 25.