Row over access to toilets at John O'Gaunt School in Hungerford

A HUNGERFORD school has announced its toilets will be locked during lesson time.

But the move has angered some.

In a letter sent to parents, John O'Gaunt School reported it is "trialling" the new regime "following some unfortunate incidents of vandalism".

The letter stated: "Toilets will be open at break and lunchtimes and before and after school as well.

"Students have plenty of opportunities at these times to use the facilities but students with medical needs will still be allowed to use a different toilet."

The news prompted some parents to strongly object on social media.

Critics were angry that all pupils were being denied access to facilities because of the bad behaviour by a few.

Nevertheless, the letter continued: "In rare, exceptional circumstances where a student may need to use a facility during lesson time, they should report to Student Reception in the first instance."

One parent posted on social media: "There must be another way...there are girls in that school that need to go for other reasons and shouldn’t ever need to explain themselves."

But another responded: "Let’s not blame teachers for having to lock toilets to stop them from being vandalised by students and making them unusable. "Catch the culprits and hold them responsible."

The school accepted the move was "contentious" but stressed it was deemed necessary.

* DO you have strong views in favour or against the decision?

Have your say – email john.garvey@newburynews.co.uk