I am the parent of two young daughters, aged 10 and 7, who attend a primary school where the headteacher organizes public coffee mornings. These events, open to the general public, occur while students are present on school grounds. Despite my concerns about the safety of our children, the headteacher assures me that I should "just trust the world.” However, I believe it is vital to protect our children and ensure their safety at all times.

Allowing unrestricted public access to school premises poses significant security risks to both students and staff. In an age where school security is paramount, it’s alarming that strangers can mingle so freely within school grounds during these events. Statistics from the National Center for Education show that 82% of public schools recorded that they controlled access to school buildings during school hours as a safety measure. By hosting these open coffee mornings, the school is deviating from a widely adopted practice designed to keep students safe.

Moreover, the presence of unfamiliar individuals increases the potential for accidents, inappropriate interactions, or worse. We should ensure our educational environments are sanctuaries of safety and trust, not places of potential risk and uncertainty.

I urge the school administration and local education authorities to consider alternatives that allow parents to engage with the school community without compromising safety. Options might include organizing virtual coffee mornings or holding events after school hours when students are no longer present.

Let us prioritize the safety and well-being of our children. Please join me in calling for an end to public coffee mornings held during school hours and support safer practices that protect our students. Sign this petition to urge change and help keep our children safe.