‘Action was taken to protect the individual and others-we have to act in the moment and prioritise pupil safety.’

Bower Park Academy issue letter to parents following social media image of headteacher.

An image of the Bower Park Headteacher restraining a pupil went viral across the borough yesterday causing many parents to be concerned. This morning a letter was issued by the CEO of Empower Learning Trust Mr London, who openly answered any concerns parents may have had after seeing the image.

Mr London states: “Whilst we are unable to discuss the details of individual incidents, it is important that you understand that the Department of Education states:

All members of school staff have a legal power to use reasonable force

Reasonable force can be used to prevent pupils from hurting themselves or others, from damaging property, or from causing disorder.

Schools can use reasonable force to prevent a pupil from attacking a member of staff or another pupil, or to stop a fight in the playground.

Mr London added: “With regard to the incident in the photograph, the above criteria applied and action was taken to protect the individual and others. No member of school staff takes these actions lightly but they have to act in the moment and prioritise pupil safety.”

The CEO also goes on to say that the incident had been fully investigated and it has been found that the actions taken were appropriate.

Many parents took to Facebook yesterday evening when the photo was shown and had concerns over what they saw.

The letter below has been issued to all parents today to reassure them that the action taken by Headteacher Mr Deen were indeed justified.