Staff often go beyond call of duty
I AM writing as the parent of an outraged teenager, who currently attends Yate International Academy.
Whilst I do not condone bullying of any sort, I'm sure most schools have a small amount that does go on. Therefore YIA is certainly not unique. Mr Gilbert may have excluded the child who bullied Tyler Walsh for one day, but I am sure his hands were tied by government red tape which wouldn't allow him to increase the punishment.
-
Emma Walsh and her son Tyler, 12, who she claims has been bullied at school for the colour of his hair
However every story has two sides and sadly the school will not be able to respond fully to the allegations made by Ms Walsh. I therefore feel, as a parent, another view of YIA should be published.
My child had a "shaky" start to year 7 and was taught some lessons in the PIC (Pupil Inclusion Centre), since then, they have won awards for progress and achievement, gained a GCSE in English Literature in Year 9, and is now on target to get all As at GCSE this summer.
Maybe Ms Walsh should have tried to work with the school in her son's best interest and encourage Tyler to attend the inclusion centre for lessons.
This would have at least given the school a chance to show her what can be achieved when parents and the school deal with an issue together.
As for the attack in the street, this could happen anywhere and at any time, the school cannot and should not be held responsible for this.
I personally see Mr Gilbert and other members of staff on the gate and in the surrounding areas every morning and every evening whatever the weather to ensure pupils behave correctly within the immediate vicinity.
I have personally known Mr Gilbert and his excellent staff regularly going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the very best for their pupils at all times.
They have worked extremely hard to improve the reputation of YIA and most of the pupils there are proud of what has been achieved. It's a shame this can be blighted by one person.
My second child will be starting at YIA in September, after visiting the other local schools, I am still quite sure we have made the right decision.
Parent of current pupil at YIA
Comments
by A_Mushroom
Saturday, January 28 2012, 1:23AM
“Well said! I often wonder whether it is the best choice to walk away from a difficult situation when one could work with those who would help resolve it.
Running to tell a one-sided story to the papers may make an individual feel better but it rarely makes the situation any better.”