Outraged parents have criticized a school for utilizing scanners to inspect their children upon entering classes.
Valley Leadership Academy in Bacup, near Manchester, has implemented random scanning of students as they enter school, with staff searching for ‘harmful items such as vapes.’ While pupils were informed that the scan also looks for phones, the school refutes this, stating that ‘phones are a separate issue.’
A mother recounted how her 11-year-old son, new to Year 7, returned home upset after being singled out when the keys in his bag triggered the scanner. She expressed surprise that all children were scanned without prior notification during an open evening visit. The incident left her son embarrassed and distressed, with no communication from the school to parents after the event.
Expressing understanding for security measures related to weapons, the concerned parent raised privacy concerns and questioned the lack of transparency from the school regarding the scanning procedure, feeling it was invasive.
Another parent echoed similar sentiments, expressing discomfort with what they perceived as an extreme policy, especially for new and anxious students.
In response, a spokesperson for the school, operated by Star Academies multi-academy trust, emphasized that student safety is their top priority. They clarified that the handheld screening wands are used to detect harmful items like vapes, which present health risks to young individuals. The school assured that the checks are conducted randomly and with compassion by trained staff, aiming to support anxious students. They plan to inform all parents about the process shortly.
Regarding mobile phones, the school emphasized their investment in lockers to promote a device-free learning environment, aiming to enhance focus and student well-being. Recognizing mobile phones as a safeguarding concern, the school underscored its commitment to fostering a secure and tranquil educational setting.
The school’s stance aims to address safety concerns while balancing student well-being and academic focus.