School bans bags so boy turns up carrying books in a microwave

School bans bags so boy turns up carrying books in a microwave

Mangalore Today News Network

Nov 02 2018: A school has banned bags for health and safety reasons leading some pupils to get creative with how they carry their books. Jacob Ford, 17, disagreed with the policy at Spalding Grammar School after sixth-formers were ordered not to carry bags between classes. The school stated that ‘injury was being caused to younger students’ because of ‘ever-larger bags’ being carried on their shoulders.

 

Instead they are being encouraged to carry books by hand between lessons. Previously bags were not allowed in years 7 to eleven, but until this year were allowed for sixth formers. Jacob staged a silent protest by using a wicker basket and a microwave to make a point after a petition was started.

He also wrote a 3,000-word essay in which he says a compromise could be made. He ended up being suspended for two days after he refused to hand over his mobile phone which he used to keep his mother Tracy updated about his ‘treatment’. She said: ‘I think Jacob’s protest has been very peaceful and I believe he should have his say.

‘At the end of the day, I believe in freedom of speech and so I’m very proud of him for standing up for something he believes in. Microwave or no microwave.’ Days after the rule was enforced, a petition began online.

Hannah Catterall, who started the petition, said: ‘By not permitting backpacks students are unable to carry revision materials to and from school with ease and therefore grades may dramatically decrease.’ The petition was removed days later after gaining 463 signatures.

Bridget Allan, who has two children at the school, said: ‘I was outraged when I heard about the ban. I think it is ridiculous. ‘How can you even get to places on time with all the right books, let alone do things like sanitary towels.

 

Courtesy: metro.co.uk