On 13th February 2025, my daughter fell victim to explicit verbal abuse by a teacher at Harris Academy Bermondsey in South East London. She was subjected to demeaning remarks regarding her appearance, being labeled as ugly, unattractive, and other derogatory terms. Instead of addressing this issue with professionalism, the school appears to be attempting a cover-up, leading to additional distress for my child.

Unfortunately, my family's ordeal isn't an isolated incident. I’ve been contacted by multiple parents experiencing similar issues with Harris Academy institutions throughout London. Such behavior from educators, tasked to shape the future generations, is deeply troubling and can leave lasting impacts on a child's mental health and self-esteem.

Research shows that teacher conduct significantly impacts a student's academic performance and psychological growth. The American Psychological Association indicates that positive student-teacher relationships contribute to improved student academic outcomes, while negative relations can result in adverse effects such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem (APA, 2020).

Therefore, we call upon the Harris Academy Federation to revamp their policies concerning the treatment of students by teachers. We demand clear definitions of acceptable behavior, constant monitoring for adherence, and strict consequences for breaches. This is not merely about punishment, but ensuring a safe and enriching learning atmosphere for our children. Join us and sign this petition to demand that every child studying in Harris Academy schools across London is respected and free from any form of verbal abuse.