Crackdown on pupils’ anti-social behaviour.

LETTER: Head teacher writes to parents to ask for their assistance

Pupils at Perth High and Perth Academy are being blamed for incidents of “anti-social behaviour” around the schools.

Reports of vandalism, stone throwing and fights between pupils has led to a stern warning being issued by Perth High head teacher Thirza Pupillo.

She has written to parents to ask for their co-operation in tackling the issue and said the “clear message” was that pupils were safer staying within the school grounds over lunchtimes.

“There have been a range of concerns raised by our community police officers, students and residents alike in relation to the behaviour of a small number of young people in the community over lunchtimes and at the end of the day,” she said.

“The geographical area around the reservoir between Athollbank and Jeanfield Road is an area of concern and a number of both Perth High School and Perth Academy students have been congregating there at lunchtimes.

“The police have concerns over some anti-social and illegal behaviours witnessed at these times.”

Mrs Pupillo said they were working closely with their counterparts at Perth Academy and the community police team to solve the problems.

Local councillor Willie Wilson said he had been made aware of a number of incidents in the Viewlands area and he welcomed the efforts to tackle them.

“I have been in touch with both Perth Academy and Perth High School and Police Scotland on the matter,” he said.

“Action is being taken by both schools and the police. I hope that the letters that are being sent to parents will heighten parental awareness of the problem.

“We all need to work together to ensure this behaviour stops.

“It is totally unacceptable and the young folk involved need to be firmly reminded of their civic responsibilities.”

A council spokesperson said: “Perth High School has proactively reminded pupils this week that they are expected to behave responsibly and positively when out in the local community.

“The letter to parents/guardians is part of that proactive approach, and a similar letter has also gone to parents/ guardians at neighbouring Perth Academy.”

I hope that the letters that are being sent to parents will heighten parental awareness of the problem. COUNCILLOR WILLIE WILSON

Picture: Steve MacDougall. The entrance to the Scottish Water Reservoir, which is an area of concern.