For many years now Barnwell school has been infamous for its mistreatment of students. However, lately it has been at its peak. With many students coming forward saying they have attempted or considered suicide and the webpage “everyone’s invited” having Barnwell on their list. If you’re not aware prior “Everyone’s invite” raised awareness about sexual assault in establishments that particularly have not been handled appropriately. Thus the fact that Barnwell is on that list is revolting.

Many students and parents that i have heard from and or about, have voiced their concerns to the school but to no avail. How can parents be sure that their children are safe when concerns are being undermined? On the topic of minor safety, the constant sexualisation of school students in particular female students has reach a disgusting peak. Of course skirt length is understandable to discuss in a public setting. But the constant nitpicking that disrupts pupils learning - because ultimately from what i and other parents can see and hear the issue is not “the boys” or “modesty” it’s the inability for teachers to be sure students are protected from other teachers with unseen intentions . Never in my days of school have i been distracted by the colour of someone’s socks or the amount of piercings that they harbour.

Another topic I’d like to discuss is the supposed “encouraged diversity” at Barnwell school. Discriminative assaults towards students of different races and sexualities are not handled well if at all. How is it possible to supposedly encourage individuality and expression while suppressing possible ways of doing such ? Pride flags were not even permitted on campus on a week allegedly for LGBTQIA+ students! That is absurd!

Students are constantly stereotyped and called racial slurs and what justice do they receive? They are told to “mind their words” and “go to a teacher rather than reacting”. Has it been forgotten that students are human too? They feel emotion just as others do. They are competent enough to voice their concerns and they deserve to have their needs met.

In summary, what is being asked for is a democratic reform of the school uniform and a student run body/council that attends to the needs of minority students and helps be a channel for students to voice their concerns. Parents and students should be able to vote and voice what is appropriate for school uniform aswell as affordable. Blazers for our ones were 50 pounds and to rebut them every time they get small is taking unnecessary money out of our pockets. We propose that a dress code or colour code is set buy the school (ie white and navy or business casual) and allow families to find clothes that will be a lot cheaper.

In addition, A public apology should be released by those involved in the disgusting “data breach” scandal which occurred on September 9th. Not only was this students’ private information, the opinions included were disgusting and i can only imagine what the rest of the pages would have been filled with. Barnwell needs to take responsibility for their actions which have affected so many. This is the chance for Parents, carers and students to have a say. So please sign this petition for a healthier school experience.