DESPAIRING parents are attempting to hold an emergency meeting in a desperate effort to try stem what they say is an endemic of bullying and anti-social behaviour at a Barry High School.
Last week we reported the heart-breaking account of Evelyn Cook, 13, whose academic ability and confidence were described as “diminished” after the treatment she had received at Pencoedtre High.
Evelyn was allegedly victim to a gang attack and had to resort to hiding from lessons.
In February this year, Pencoedtre High was placed under special measures after an Estyn inspection report that said the school had to ‘improve strategic leadership and accountability at all levels’.
Now concerned parents have taken matters into their own hands to try solve the problem.
Facebook group “Pencoedtre High School parent/guardian/grandparents” is attempting to arrange a meeting to sort the situation out saying no one is happy with what is going on.
A meeting was arranged for this evening, March 22, however has been postponed.
In a message to group members, a member said: “Due to a family emergency I will have to postpone tonight’s meeting. School has also put pressure on, with some sadly worrying that it will be a lynch mob rather than a concerned community wanting the best education to their children.”
Evelyn Cook, 13, has had a torrid time at the school being subject to a gang attack
The meeting is for parents and staff and will include information from a form going round asking parents what their concerns are.
The message went on: “For clarity, concerned parents and staff are welcome. A simple form will have to be filled in by all with their concerns. No names will be required.
"Those concerns will be discussed as a group and put together to highlight the shared concerns for all and what action we require. Politicians are concerned and happy to come along to the meetings.”
“Parents and staff are looking to have a better standard for children,” finished the message.
“Everyone is upset for the children right now and the wish for change is shared.”
In a joint statement issued after the allegations around Evelyn emerged, Vale Council and Pencoedtre High said: “Bullying of any kind is completely unacceptable and both Pencoedtre High and the council have a zero tolerance approach to such behaviour.
“We will work to address any issues of this type brought to our attention and appropriate action will be taken against anyone found to be involved in bullying.”
Are you a parent or staff member concerned with what’s going on at Pencoedtre High? Contact Harry Jamshidian at harry.jamshidian@newsquest.co.uk to raise your concerns – all emails are confidential.
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