A British school has come under fire for prohibiting hugging, romance, holding hands or any other type of physical contact inside its premises. Parents and guardians of the students have called the new rules ‘draconian’ and denounced them.
The school has also banned mobiles. Students who are caught with mobile phones could have them locked in a safe for the rest of the day. The school also said they do not allow romantic relationships among the students.
The institute is Hylands School in Chelmsford, Essex. Despite harsh criticism, the school maintained that the majority of the parents support their decision and would continue with the rules.
They claimed it ‘engenders mutual respect and encourages kids to conduct themselves professionally as any future employer would expect.’
As per a letter, the secondary school states, ‘the administration does not tolerate any physical contact. Angry aggressive physical contact, such as hugging, holding hands, slapping someone, etc. are prohibited forms of physical contact. This is in order to keep your child safe.’
The letter further added, ‘While we want your children to make real positive friendships, hopefully lifelong ones, we don’t allow romantic relationships at Hylands.’
‘Of course your child can have these relationships outside of school with your permission,’ read the letter.