Co Antrim school suspends 19 boys amid ‘toxic masculinity’ concerns

An official complaint has now been made to the school’s board of governors by most of the parents about the disciplinary actions of the principal who suspended the students following an alleged assembly incident.

The matters have now come to light as the Education Authority has become involved in what has been claimed as long running allegations of “intimidation” of female teachers by male Year 11 students.

A group of parents of 16 of the children suspended have given permission for a spokesperson to comment to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS). The parent said: "I would implore the Board of Governors to take this matter extremely seriously.

“I am disgusted to hear terminology such as “masculine toxicity” with my son’s name beside it. Anyone who knows my son, knows he is the most lovable, kind natured, humble young person with the utmost respect to all.

“Some of these boys have never even had a detention.”

The parent added: “I had hoped the principal would have reflected over the weekend with the acknowledgment of her overreaction, a retraction and apology to all involved. Instead, she has doubled down claiming intimidation and threatening behaviour that apparently has been going on for months. “With the severity of the principal’s accusations, I took the opportunity to ask all his teachers what my son’s behaviour was like in school, they all said he was a delight and joy to teach.

"I also asked each female teacher if they ever felt threatened or intimidated by my son and all of them said absolutely not.” Boys are alleged to have behaved with “disruptive and disrespectful behaviour directed towards staff”.

The principal, who wrote to parents, also raised concerns of challenging attitudes around Year 11 boys to ensure a “culture of toxic masculinity does not develop”. The disruptive behaviour alleged includes speaking over the top of the principal, making noises and laughing.

The LDRS spoke to the principal and presented the concerns of the parents with the matter forwarded on to the Education Authority (EA) for a response.

A spokesperson for the EA stated: “We are firmly committed to creating a welcoming, safe and positive learning environment for all pupils and staff within our school community.

“Respect for each other is a cornerstone of our school community and helps to foster a nurturing and supportive environment for everyone. “We strive to build strong relationships with pupils and families, and work hard to guide young people to make positive and constructive choices, enabling them to reach their full potential. “Whilst it would be inappropriate to comment on specifics relating to individual pupils, we work closely with both pupils and parents to resolve any issues and concerns through restorative practices. “This approach helps pupils understand the impact of their actions, develop empathy for others and, where necessary, take steps to change behaviours.”