‘Toxic masculinity’ row as 19 Year 11 boys suspended at Co Antrim school

A group of 19 boys have been suspended at a Co Antrim school, with parents making an official complaint about the principal’s actions amid concerns relating to “toxic masculinity”.

An official complaint has now been made to the school’s board of governors by most of the parents regarding the disciplinary actions taken by the principal, who suspended the students following an alleged incident at a school assembly on January 8.

The matter has come to light as the Education Authority (EA) has become involved amid claims of long-running allegations of “intimidation” of female teachers by male Year 11 students, aged 15 to 16.

Parents of 16 of the suspended pupils 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 would be interested to know how many young people have been suspended for violence and bullying at the school in comparison to the 19 suspensions last Thursday. Could this be disproportionate?

“I am disgusted to hear her 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 for all.

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

A letter, seen by the LDRS, sent by parents to the school’s board of governors makes a formal complaint regarding the principal’s “conduct”.

The parent added: “It’s important to note that we all have bad days at work. I had hoped the principal would have reflected over the weekend with an acknowledgement of her overreaction, a retraction and an 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 a 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.”

The LDRS understands that the principal personally phoned every parent to inform them of the one-day suspension on January 9, leaving voicemails where there was no answer, and has invited all parents to attend one-to-one meetings to discuss the issue further.

In email correspondence seen by the LDRS, allegations against the boys were outlined. The pupils are alleged to have displayed “disruptive and disrespectful behaviour directed towards staff”.

It is claimed that this behaviour has resulted in a number of substitute and female teachers refusing to teach certain classes, after becoming upset to the point of having to leave work.

The emails further allege that a group of up to approximately 15 boys confronted the principal outside her office in what is described as an “intimidating” manner. The behaviours are said to have been ongoing since September.

The students have also been asked to write a “reflective note” on their behaviour.

In the emails, the principal raises concerns about challenging attitudes among Year 11 boys and the need to ensure that a “culture of toxic masculinity does not develop”.

The principal writes:

“I have been in teaching for a very long time, but I can honestly say this morning was the most intimidating, disrespectful behaviour I have ever experienced.”

The alleged disruptive behaviour includes speaking over the principal, making noises and laughing.

The LDRS contacted the principal and presented the concerns raised by parents. The matter was subsequently referred to the Education Authority for a response.

The EA has provided support to the school and issued a statement on January 14 on behalf of the school, which reads:

“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.”