A SCHOOL in Launceston has defended its discipline methods after a number of teachers left the school at the end of term.

Launceston College has come under fire recently as parents of children attending the school have expressed their concern at the school’s treatment of students.

One parent, who wishes to remain anonymous, contacted the Post about the school. They said: “The treatment of the students is prison-like, frankly. The school (all schools) have a legal responsibility to teach children, but for a large percentage, they’re being put into ‘triage’ for so many lessons, that they’re losing out on an education. Too many needless detentions results in kids giving up, and assuming school is just detention. They are not being encouraged to learn, they are being beaten down mentally until they leave or give up.

“If a child is late to class and tries to explain why, they get detention, this includes being just a few minutes late. So instead of sitting that child down, pointing out they're late, and telling them to get on with the lessons, they end up missing two lessons and a break. There is no common sense involved. The teachers have told me there’s ‘very little autonomy’. So basically if the child has a valid reason, the teachers do not take that into account, so the child misses future lessons/learning.”

These issues have prompted speculation after 14 teachers left the school at the end of term, with some suggesting this is due to the school’s approach. However, principal at the school, Mr Matthew Thompson has defended the college’s record.

Speaking to the Post he said: “While some colleagues are moving on at the end of this academic year, this is in line with natural staff turnover. We have not experienced significant staff movement in recent years, and departures this term reflect a variety of positive career and personal developments. I can however confirm that Launceston College will be fully staffed in September.

“Some staff are going on secondment to other schools within our trust, others are taking up new roles elsewhere, including promotions, retirements, or opportunities that align more closely with their personal circumstances, such as full-time positions outside of term-time. We are incredibly grateful for their contributions and wish each of them well in their next chapter. Launceston College remains a strong and united school community, and we are excited for what the next academic year will bring.

“When a student disrupts the learning of others despite a warning, they'll spend a limited period (typically two lessons and a break) in a dedicated support setting. During this time, they'll continue their education via our online curriculum and receive targeted interventions to help them address the root causes of their behaviour, catch up on reading or maths, or follow lessons mirroring their in-class studies. This approach ensures their learning continues uninterrupted while they gain the skills to return to the classroom successfully.

“We remain proud of our students, staff and the high expectations we set to ensure every young person can thrive.”