I am currently looking for primary schools for my son to start in September 2013 and whilst looking round these I have been shocked by the lack of care children are given at break times in relation to the unsuitable clothes the children have on.
It was -1.5 degress outside last week and the first school I visited had a lot of children without coats on never mind hats, scarves and gloves. I spoke to the office staff regarding this as a matter of great concern and they said they would look into it.
I then went to a second Primary school in my area on the same cold day and those children from reception and above also didn't have their coats on.
I have been back to the first school yesterday and it was raining heavily and again some children did not have their coats on. It was an improvement but it was a shame on those who were cold and wet through. Today it is 6 degrees and I counted at least 18 children without their coats on but the staff in the playground had their coats on.
I spoke to the person in charge of the welfare staff who 'look after' the children in the playground and she said that children aged 8 years onwards are responsible for putting their own coats on. They have been reminded to put their coats on but it is their responsibility.
I feel as a parent that when leaving my child in the care of a school dressed in the correct clothes for the weather I expect someone their to take charge and ensure each and every child is dressed correctly. If my son refused to wear his coat on a frosty day or when it is raining I expect to be informed so that I can speak with my son so that he will wear the correct clothes next time at school. If he didn't I would have thought he wouldn't be allowed to play outside. According to this particular school it is up to the child.
My greatest worry is that this is happening across the country but parents are unaware as we leave our children dressed correctly assuming they will be at break time when we are not there.
I urge you all to ask your children if they wore their coats today. Check to make sure our children are not at risk of neglect whilst in somebody else's care. To me if their basic needs are not being met then the schools are failing the well being of the children and the trust of parents.
Ccazzy (concerned parent)
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Ccazzy · 18/12/2012 14:05
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